Installer Show 2025: Loyalty Takes Centre Stage
With day three of Installer Show 2025 well underway, it’s the perfect time to pause and reflect on what we’ve seen so far—and what it means for the future of loyalty in the plumbing and heating industry.
Loyalty Is No Longer a ‘Nice to Have’
From the moment the doors opened on Tuesday morning, it was clear that loyalty is no longer sitting quietly in the background. It’s right up front—driving footfall to stands, sparking meaningful conversations, and influencing buying decisions.
Everywhere we turned, there was evidence of just how seriously brands are taking customer engagement. Gamification was out in full force, and it’s no surprise as to why – it’s because it works.
Gamification Done Right: A Round-Up of Highlights
Here’s just a flavour of the tactics that we spotted being used effectively on the show floor:
- Celebrity engagement: City Plumbing’s partnership with strongman Eddie Hall turned plenty of heads, and Nibe’s guest appearance by ex-Arsenal player Freddie Ljungberg was a big pull for them.
- Spin-to-win mechanics: A classic for a reason - this interactive format continues to attract attention and drive sign-ups. The digital translation of this is online spin-to-win rewards for members logging in or engaging with campaigns.
- Interactive games:
- Guitar Hero – perfect for encouraging stand dwell time and light-hearted engagement.
- Golf putting challenges – mixing skill and reward to attract both seasoned professionals and newcomers.
- F1 simulator – fast-paced, high-adrenaline experiences draw strong footfall and create memorable moments.
- Reaction-based games like the catch-drop challenge – simple, competitive, and fun.
All of these tactics have one thing in common: they’re built on engagement - a principle that’s fundamental to any successful loyalty programme.
What This Means for Loyalty Programmes
In a market as competitive and increasingly saturated as plumbing and heating, loyalty schemes must do more than exist - they must differentiate.
Yes, having a programme is arguably table stakes. But making it the one your customers remember and actively participate in – that is where the opportunity lies.
Top Tips to Make Your Loyalty Programme Stand Out
Here are three practical, experience-driven strategies to elevate your programme above the noise:
1. Gamify Your Digital Experience
Bring the same energy seen at the show into your digital environment. Whether it’s weekly spin-to-win draws, skill-based quizzes, or seasonal leaderboards, gamification keeps members engaged beyond the transaction.
2. Offer Tiered Value, Not Just Points
Move beyond simple earn-and-burn. Introduce tiers, badges, and exclusive experiences that give members a sense of progress and prestige.
3. Make it Personal
Use your data intelligently. Recommend products based on previous purchases. Celebrate milestones like work anniversaries. Offer timely promotions based on seasonality or behaviour. The more tailored the experience, the stronger the emotional connection.
The energy at Installer Show 2025 confirms what we already know: loyalty is alive and well - and it’s evolving fast.
Now is the time to take stock of your programme. Is it engaging? Is it memorable? Is it delivering real value to both your business and your members?
If you’re not sure, or if you’re ready to take the next step, we’re always happy to talk.
Let’s make loyalty a core part of your growth strategy in 2025 and beyond.