A WhatsApp powered Customer Loyalty System Launches to Simplify Rewards for Small Service-Based Retailers
Johannesburg, South Africa – March 2026 – A new WhatsApp-based loyalty programme is set to launch, offering small businesses an easy-to-use system to reward repeat customers without the need for a dedicated app, loyalty cards or additional software.
Developed by ET Artificial Intelligence Systems the system uses WhatsApp, the messaging app that South Africans already rely on daily, to track purchases, issue points, announce specials and deliver instant rewards, targeting coffee shops, hairdressers, nail spas, service centers, independent retailers, and any business with frequent repeat trade.
Keith Levenstein, MD of ET Artificial Intelligence Systems says many small operators have avoided formal loyalty schemes due to setup costs, complexity, ongoing admin and customer resistance to downloading yet another app.
“Traditional loyalty cards that get stamped are common, but manual systems are severely limited and prone to abuse. The ET Customer Loyalty Programme removes those barriers by operating entirely within WhatsApp, where usage costs are minimal and notifications are rarely disabled. Businesses want repeat business but struggle to find the right formula.”
Levenstein adds: “Small businesses know that loyal customers can drive revenue and referrals, but most lack the tools to build meaningful programmes. By using WhatsApp, which users are checking constantly and know how to use, it is the ideal platform for a loyalty programme, making it simple, instant and mobile-first. Customers can easily view points earned at the swipe of a finger and businesses can send targeted offers in seconds.”
“The ET Customer Loyalty Programme can reward customers for repeat visits, referrals or on spending, with redemption handled via a quick message or code shown at the till. “
“The real power of the system is businesses can now message their customers quickly and easily at low cost once the customer has subscribed to their WhatsApp chat. Even some large retailers cannot do that. It’s 2-way communication where the customer can message the business to ask questions or make bookings. All a customer must do to subscribe is point their camera at a QR code and press send while inside WhatsApp. It takes 10 seconds – less time than to take a physical card out of your pocket or handbag”
Businesses can also broadcast time-sensitive promotions. For example, alerting loyal customers to limited-stock items at a discount, turning idle inventory into immediate sales. It could be reminding a customer to book an appointment to get their hair or nails done.”
Levenstein says the programme is designed for ease of use: no new app installation, no complex onboarding or support issues and minimal staff training. “It suits businesses that rely on convenience and personal relationships to compete with larger chain loyalty programmes with no initial outlay”.
About ET Artificial Intelligence Systems ET develops practical AI and communication solutions for South African businesses, with a focus on accessibility and real-world impact.
Contact details
Keith Levenstein
keith@etphones.co.za
083 634 9393
Issued by:
Sha-Izwe Communications/CharlesSmithAssoc
Jhb: +27 08 444 2 777 2
6th Floor Jhb Chamber of Commerce and Industry (JCCI)
Cnr Empire Rd and Owl Str, Milpark, Johannesburg.
Somerset West: Lompre House, Fairways Office Park
PO Box 52 18 67 Saxonwold 2132, SA
www.csa.co.za e: charles@csa.co.za
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