The Alternative upgrade method allows customers to unlock a VIP tier by placing a single qualifying order instead of meeting the cumulative spending requirement.
By default, customers progress through VIP tiers by reaching the Entry goal, which is based on their total spending since the start date. When the Alternative upgrade method is enabled, customers have an additional way to qualify—they can be promoted immediately after placing one order that meets the specified amount.
This feature is useful for encouraging larger purchases and rewarding high-value customers sooner and is commonly used in department stores
Enable the Alternative Upgrade Method
- In Ako Marketing, go to Loyalty program > VIP.
- Click Edit next to the tier.
- In the Alternative upgrade method section, select Upgrade with a single order and enter the minimum order amount required for customers to qualify.
How It Works
Once enabled, customers can qualify for the VIP tier in one of two ways:
- Reach the Entry goal through cumulative spending.
- Place a single order that meets or exceeds the qualifying order amount.
Customers are upgraded as soon as they satisfy either condition. For example, suppose your Silver VIP tier has:
- Entry goal: Spend $3,000 since the start date.
- Alternative upgrade method: One order of $1,500 or more.
A customer can become a Silver member by either:
- Spending a total of $3,000 across multiple orders, or
- Placing a single order worth $1,500 or more.
Whichever requirement is met first will upgrade the customer to the Silver tier.
Best Practices
The Alternative upgrade method is useful in the following scenarios:
Reward high-value purchases
Encourage customers to place larger orders by allowing them to unlock a VIP tier immediately after making a qualifying purchase, rather than waiting to accumulate enough spending over time.
Example:
A customer places a single order worth $1,500 and is instantly upgraded to the Silver tier, even though they haven't reached the cumulative spending goal.
Launch a limited-time promotion
During promotional events such as Black Friday, holiday sales, or product launches, you can motivate customers to increase their order value by offering immediate VIP status for qualifying purchases.
Accelerate VIP enrollment
If you're introducing a new VIP program, the Alternative upgrade method helps customers experience VIP benefits sooner, encouraging engagement and repeat purchases.
Incentivize premium product purchases
If your store sells high-ticket items, customers may naturally qualify through a single purchase. Enabling this feature ensures they receive their VIP benefits immediately after completing the order.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does the Alternative Upgrade Method replace the Entry Goal?
No. The Entry Goal remains active. The Alternative Upgrade Method provides an additional way for customers to qualify for the VIP tier.
Can customers qualify using either method?
Yes. Customers are upgraded to the VIP tier as soon as they meet either of the following conditions:
- Reach the configured cumulative spending (Entry Goal).
- Place a single qualifying order that meets the Alternative Upgrade Method amount.
Can I change or disable the Alternative Upgrade Method later?
Yes. You can edit the VIP tier settings at any time to update the qualifying order amount or disable the Alternative Upgrade Method. Changes apply to future customer qualification and do not affect customers who have already been upgraded.
Why didn't my customer upgrade after placing a qualifying order?
If a customer doesn't upgrade as expected, check the following:
- The Alternative Upgrade Method is enabled for the VIP tier.
- The order meets the required minimum amount.
- The order has been completed and synchronized with Ako Marketing.
- The customer hasn't already qualified for a higher VIP tier.
