Rakuten, the leading Cash Back shopping platform, has introduced Programmatic Loyalty, an industry-first advertising solution that leverages AI and first-party data to deliver performance-driven outcomes with a guaranteed return on ad spend (ROAS). Retailers using this innovative solution have already witnessed remarkable growth, with a leading home and garden brand seeing a 107% year-over-year increase in shoppers during the second half of 2024.

Features of Programmatic Loyalty

1. AI-Powered Campaign Execution

Brands and retailers can build and execute campaigns in just three steps, optimized using automation, data, and personalization strategies:

• Aligned performance: Define campaign gross merchandizing value (GMV) based on budget and guaranteed ROAS.
• Fixed commission rate: Maintain a consistent commission rate throughout each month-long campaign.
• Dynamic Cash Back & media spend: AI-driven personalization dynamically adjusts incentives and placements to drive higher GMV, such as:
  • Adjusting Cash Back rates
  • Targeting different audience segments
  • Purchasing media inventory for optimal reach

2. Proven Performance for Retailers

Retailers leveraging Programmatic Loyalty are experiencing significant improvements in key metrics, including:

• 107% increase in shoppers (YoY growth for a home and garden brand)
• 81% rise in trips
• 5% boost in average order value (AOV)
• Consistently meeting monthly ROAS goals

Industry Impact

Rakuten’s Programmatic Loyalty is redefining the way retailers approach affiliate marketing and digital advertising. By offering goal-based advertising solutions, Rakuten ensures that brands achieve measurable outcomes.

Julie Van Ullen, Chief Revenue Officer at Rakuten Rewards, highlights the platform’s uniqueness:

"Programmatic Loyalty is revolutionizing the way in which retailers approach their affiliate investments. We trust our technology, data, and in-house expertise enough to take a bold stance and deliver a goal-based solution for retailers. That's something no other rewards platform can offer."

With AI-driven automation, first-party data insights, and guaranteed ROAS, Rakuten’s Programmatic Loyalty is empowering brands and retailers to optimize their advertising strategies, drive higher engagement, and maximize returns. As the retail advertising landscape continues to evolve, this solution offers a powerful competitive edge for businesses looking to scale their affiliate marketing efforts.