10 Loyalty Cards That Promised the Moon — Then Got Retired
These loyalty cards once offered big rewards but quietly disappeared over time.
- Daisy Montero
- 3 min read
Some loyalty cards offered amazing deals at first. Over time, companies changed or closed, and these programs ended. This list shows 10 loyalty cards that did not last.
1. Borders Rewards
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Borders enticed book lovers with discounts, exclusive coupons, and early access to sales. The program built a strong following, but as Borders struggled financially, the loyalty program could not save it. After Borders closed in 2011, the rewards program disappeared too.
2. American Airlines AAdvantage Unlimited Mile Card
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AAdvantage once offered a lifetime of unlimited travel for a hefty upfront fee. Some customers bought in, expecting endless free flights. As costs skyrocketed, American Airlines quietly phased out the unlimited version to protect its bottom line.
3. Blockbuster Rewards
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Blockbuster Rewards gave movie renters free rentals, exclusive offers, and bonus nights. As streaming grew, DVD rentals declined fast. Blockbuster’s loyalty program ended when the company shut down most locations by 2014.
4. Sears Shop Your Way
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Sears promoted its Shop Your Way program as a major way to earn and redeem points across many brands. As Sears faced bankruptcy and closed stores, the program lost partners and became less valuable. Eventually, many users stopped using it altogether.
5. Virgin America Elevate
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Virgin America Elevate offered sleek perks, bonus points, and partnerships with hip brands. After Alaska Airlines acquired Virgin America, they merged loyalty programs. Elevate quietly vanished as the brand faded into airline history.
6. Toys “R” Us Rewards
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Toys “R” Us Rewards let parents stack up points for discounts on kids’ toys and gear. The collapse of Toys “R” Us in 2018 left loyal customers unable to use their rewards. The program ended along with the beloved toy chain.
7. Pan Am WorldPass
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Pan Am’s WorldPass catered to frequent international travelers with elite perks and upgrades. As Pan Am struggled in the airline industry, its loyalty program faded along with its operations. WorldPass officially ended when Pan Am ceased operations in 1991.
8. Best Buy Reward Zone
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Best Buy Reward Zone allowed shoppers to rack up points for electronics and accessories. As customer shopping shifted online and margins shrank, Best Buy retired the program in 2013. They replaced it with a streamlined My Best Buy program.
9. AMC MovieWatcher
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AMC’s MovieWatcher rewarded frequent moviegoers with free popcorn, tickets, and exclusive screenings. The program was replaced in 2011 by AMC Stubs to better match changing theater habits. MovieWatcher became a fond memory for cinema fans.
10. Starbucks Gold Card
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The Starbucks Gold Card offered free refills, birthday drinks, and status perks. As Starbucks modernized its app and loyalty system, the physical Gold Card was phased out in favor of a fully digital experience. Fans still miss flashing that shiny card at the register.