What is a custom reward?

Custom rewards are special incentives you can offer to your customers through the Ako Marketing app.

Custom rewards are manually set by the merchant and are not automatically given by the Ako Marketing app.

How to Set Up Custom Rewards


If your customer rewards include providing a discount code, you’ll first need to create or have an existing discount code.

Part 1: Creating a Discount Code in Shopify Admin

Follow these steps to create a discount code that can be used as a reward:

  1. Navigate to Discounts

    • Go to the left menu in your Shopify Admin

    • Click on "Discounts"

    • Click "Create discount"

  2. Select Discount Type

    • Choose "Amount off order"

    • Click the arrow to proceed

  3. Create a Discount Code

    • Select "Discount code" as the method

    • Enter your custom discount code (e.g., AKODISCOUNTCODE) or click "Generate random code"

    • Customers will need to enter this code at checkout.  This code will be shown in the loyalty widget or their customer account page, and they can use their discount code at the checkout page. 

  4. Set Discount Value

    • Choose between percentage or fixed amount

    • Enter the discount value in the field provided

  5. Configure Discount Requirements

    • Set minimum purchase requirements to use the discount code (if any)

    • Choose eligibility (all customers or specific segments)

    • Control usage limits (one-time use per customer recommended)

  6. Additional Settings






    • Decide if the code can be combined with other discounts

    • Set validity dates (start date, end date if applicable)

Part 2: Setting Up Custom Rewards in the Ako Marketing App

  1. Access Custom Rewards

    • Open the Ako Marketing app

    • Go to "Loyalty program" in the left menu

    • Click on "Custom reward"

  2. Name Your Program

    • Give a clear name to your reward program (e.g., "Purchase over $100")

    • Toggle the status button to "Active"


  3. Choose Reward Type

    • Select either "Discount Code" or "Custom"

  4. If you choose Discount Code:

    • Enter a description (e.g., "Get our special discount code")

    • Select the discount code you created in Shopify Admin

  5. If you choose Custom:

    • Enter a description (e.g., "Receive a free gift!")

    • Note that custom rewards must be fulfilled manually

  6. Set Conditions (Optional)

    • Add any specific conditions or time limitations

    • Example: "This reward is only valid for 2 months"

Tips for Effective Custom Rewards

  • Make rewards meaningful: Ensure the reward provides genuine value to customers

  • Set clear conditions: Communicate any limitations or requirements clearly

  • Track performance: Monitor which rewards drive the most engagement

  • Refresh regularly: Update your rewards periodically to maintain customer interest

  • Promote your rewards: Let customers know about your rewards program through email, social media, and your website

 

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What is the main difference between a "Discount Code" and a "Custom" reward?
A "Discount Code" reward automatically shows a specific Shopify discount code to the customer in the widget. A "Custom" reward is used for things like physical gifts or special services that you must fulfill manually after the customer claims them.

Q: Do custom rewards get sent to customers automatically by the app?
No. Custom rewards are manually set by the merchant and are not automatically issued. You are responsible for fulfilling the reward (e.g., mailing a gift or applying a manual credit) once a customer qualifies.

Q: Where do I create the discount codes for these rewards?
You must first create the discount code in your Shopify Admin > Discounts section. Once created, you can then select that specific code within the Ako Marketing app settings for your custom reward program.

Q: Can I set an expiration date for a custom reward?
Yes. When setting up the reward in the Ako Marketing app, you can use the "Set Conditions" section to add time limitations, such as "This reward is only valid for 2 months."

Q: Where do my customers see their available custom rewards?
Customers can view their custom rewards, including any assigned discount codes, within the loyalty widget on your store or through their dedicated customer account page.