'Book now, Earn later' - Rezidor SAS unveils exclusive new benefit from re-launched guest loyalty programme

The programme has changed its name to goldpoints plus (sm), and introduces a fresh and contemporary new look and a unique 'Book now, Earn later' benefit. This enables members to book online their Award Stays across Europe, the Middle East and Africa in advance of having accumulated the required number of points.

The goldpoints plus loyalty programme is designed to appeal to the frequent traveller with a range of offers across the Rezidor SAS portfolio - Radisson SAS, Park Inn and Country Inn hotels. The card is free of charge and open to EMEA residents only.

All existing members will receive new cards, the Blue entry tier becomes Red and the upbeat look extends to the programme website at www.rzgp.com, a site designed to assist members, promote special offers and serve as the primary point of contact.

"goldpoints plus has been specifically designed to offer guests what they really want in a simple yet personalised way," explained Craig Senior, Regional Director, Sales & Marketing, Rezidor SAS Middle East. "It is fully electronic and follows a less intrusive 'self-service' platform for members to maintain and manage their account via the Internet, which means members receive only relevant, targeted offers."

Members can also request information on their account via the front office at the hotels, and redeem their points without any paper documentation - environmentally-friendly as well as efficient.

For 17 years, frequent travellers have been asked to pick the best frequent travel programmes via the Freddie Awards. Introduced by InsideFlyer Magazine in 1988, the Freddies allow consumers to rank programmes from their point of view. These awards have grown in stature and importance and are among the most prestigious consumer-generated awards in the industry. For a programme celebrating its second birthday, the Gold Points membership vote saw an impressive leap from being placed 7th in 2003 as the Programme of the Year to finishing a strong third, with distinguished mentions for the programme website, member communications and the quality of the Membership Service Centre.

What differentiates goldpoints plus is that guests are offered a loyalty programme designed specifically with their needs in mind. Members are given the best room available, whether for business or pleasure, and Status Points and Nights that give access to the higher programme tiers. The points do not expire and there are no blackout date restrictions for members redeeming their points for free room nights. There are other benefits too, ranging from discounts in the hotel restaurants and complimentary hotel services to cut-price weekend deals.

In line with the extension of the Master Franchise Agreement between Rezidor SAS Hospitality and Carlson Worldwide, goldpoints plus members will benefit from a closer collaboration with Carlson Hotels in North America for extended destinations at which to redeem points.