Kiosk-style stamp collection: how the self-service loyalty scheme works

The modified stamping process at the kiosk speeds up service. Find out how the self-service loyalty card works, how to set it up, and how it protects against fraud!

Kiosk-style stamp collection: how the self-service loyalty scheme works

What if guests could still get their stamp even when your staff member is busy serving other customers? The kiosk-style stamping feature makes this possible: the guest scans their Wallet card themselves, so stamping does not interrupt the staff member’s tasks.

Guests can access stmpr’s digital loyalty card, which is based on Apple Wallet and Google Wallet, via a QR code, without needing to install a separate app. In kiosk mode, they hold the card in front of a device fitted with a camera and stamp it themselves. It’s a simple process, but it works well only if it suits the footfall and the service workflow.

In this article, you’ll find out what kind of device and guest process are required, what you should bear in mind when introducing self-service, and in which situations it’s better to opt for staff-assisted stamping. You’ll also learn about the controls in kiosk mode: customisable waiting times and daily limits, an activity log that records all operations, and a PIN code to protect against unauthorised log-out. These features help make usage more transparent, but they do not prevent all forms of misuse.

Key Points

  • Kiosk mode clocking is a self-service solution that can complement staff-assisted clocking, but does not replace it in every service situation.

  • The process requires a device with a camera: the guest opens their Wallet card and scans the QR code on it.

  • Waiting times, daily limits, an activity log and PIN-protected log-out help to keep usage within set limits, but do not eliminate all possibilities of misuse.

  • Before implementation, consider guest traffic, device availability, the rules of use and how staff can supervise the process.

  • Kiosk mode enables digital stamping, not payment. The Wallet card is a loyalty card, not a means of payment.

Table of Contents

What is kiosk-mode stamping, and when can it be useful?

With kiosk mode stamping, the customer independently stamps their Wallet card in front of a device fitted with a camera. The stamp is applied digitally to the loyalty card, not to a physical card. The Wallet card is not a means of payment, and stamping is not a payment transaction.

stmpr is a digital loyalty card based on Apple Wallet and Google Wallet. The customer connects via a QR code and then uses their card to collect stamps and redeem rewards, without needing to install a separate app. Kiosk mode can complement staff-assisted stamping: guests can stamp their cards themselves whilst staff focus on serving them. Whether this suits your day-to-day operations depends on footfall and the layout of your premises.

Unlike paper loyalty cards, digital loyalty cards can be stored on the guest’s phone. You can also read about the different types of loyalty schemes. The description of digital stamping explains how QR code stamping works.

What kind of customer experience does self-service stamping offer?

The guest retrieves their card stored in Apple Wallet or Google Wallet, then holds it up to the designated device fitted with a camera. They do not need a separate stmpr app. This can be convenient for those who keep their loyalty cards on their phone and wish to manage their stamp collection independently.

For which businesses is kiosk mode worth considering?

In a café, regular customers can collect a stamp after every purchase. Kiosk mode can be a practical addition if the device is easily accessible, customer footfall allows for self-service, and the process is straightforward. In crowded or confined sales areas, or where service requires personal assistance, having staff apply the stamps may be more appropriate. Not every type of business needs a self-service solution. The business acts as the data controller for the customer data collected upon connection.

How does kiosk mode work with the Wallet card and QR code?

The process begins by digitally linking the loyalty card. The customer scans the business’s QR code and then saves the card to Apple Wallet or Google Wallet. When using kiosk mode, the customer holds their Wallet card up to a device with a camera. The camera scans the QR code displayed on the card, and the system records the stamp.

The guest does not need to install a separate stmpr app. They use their Wallet card, whilst the business can set waiting times and daily limits to support the operation of kiosk mode.

What does the guest do, and what does the business manage?

The customer opens their Wallet card and holds it up to the designated device fitted with a camera. The stamp being recorded does not automatically mean the reward is redeemed. You determine how many stamps are required to earn a reward and the conditions under which it can be redeemed. Communicate these rules clearly so that the customer knows what to expect.

Kiosk mode operations can be tracked in the activity log, and logging out is protected by a PIN code. These measures provide control, but do not prevent all instances of misuse.

How does the Wallet card fit into this?

The guest joins the digital loyalty programme via a QR code and then stores the card in Apple Wallet or Google Wallet. The content displayed on the card can be updated via the Wallet service, and the appearance may vary from device to device. Therefore, when checking stamps, please refer to the recorded data; do not expect the card to look exactly the same on every phone.

The business is the data controller for the guest data collected upon connection. Ensure that guests receive clear information about data processing and the rules of the loyalty programme.

What controls does kiosk mode provide, and what does it not guarantee?

Self-service works well if you set the rules in advance and the guest understands what to expect. Kiosk mode provides more controls, but it does not replace the business’s oversight, nor does it eliminate all possibilities of misuse.

  • Waiting time: you can limit how often a new stamp can be requested.

  • Daily limits: these set a cap on the number of stamps that can be recorded in a single day.

  • Activity log: makes it possible to trace the kiosk’s operations.

  • PIN-protected logout: helps protect kiosk mode from unauthorised logouts.

These settings can help regulate stamping in kiosk mode, but daily limits alone do not control every aspect of its operation. Think carefully about where you place the camera-equipped device: it should be clearly visible and easy to use, but staff should also be able to spot when help is needed. A designated location and simple instructions for use can reduce uncertainty.

Make the stamp and reward scheme clear

State clearly which purchases or services earn a stamp, and under what conditions the reward can be redeemed. If customers know what to expect, there will be fewer misunderstandings at the counter. Kiosk mode makes stamp collection self-service, whilst the terms for redeeming rewards are still determined by the business.

If the QR code cannot be scanned

Do not promise an automatic solution for every scanning error. In such cases, a member of staff can take over the stamping process using the stmpr Scanner app. A four-digit backup code can also be used when scanning the QR code, and the app can operate offline even with a weak Wi-Fi connection. You’ll find details on stamping and redemption in the stamping guide.

The business is the data controller for the guest data collected upon connection. Ensure that guests receive clear information about data processing and the rules of the loyalty programme.

Try out kiosk mode

How do you decide whether kiosk mode is right for your business?

Kiosk mode stamping may work well for your business if guests can easily access the device with a camera, understand the scanning process, and a member of staff is on hand to help if necessary. To help you decide, consider your customer footfall, the available devices, the check-in rules and who will be monitoring the process.

  • Customer footfall: consider when and where customers most often ask for a stamp.

  • Device and placement: ensure the camera is easily accessible without getting in the way of service.

  • Rules: Set out in advance when a stamp is awarded and how the reward can be redeemed.

  • Supervision: designate who will assist guests and who will monitor the use of the kiosk.

When is self-service stamping a good option?

In a café, after placing their order, guests can scan their Wallet card themselves whilst the staff member focuses on serving. In a beauty salon, staff can continue to stamp the guest’s card, whilst the kiosk mode is available as an additional option. Self-service isn’t always more convenient: if a customer needs help, having a member of staff stamp their card may be a more direct solution. You’ll find details of this feature in the description of kiosk mode.

You can tailor the rules of the loyalty scheme to suit your business. You decide how many stamps are required to earn a reward, what that reward should be, and the conditions under which it can be redeemed. Choose a system that is easy for guests to understand and simple for staff to follow.

What’s the first step after you’ve weighed up your options?

Set out how guests connect via a QR code, where they can find the kiosk, the rules for earning stamps, and who they can contact if they have any questions. Next, decide whether self-service or staff-assisted stamping is more suitable for each service situation. The business is the data controller for the guest data collected upon connection.

Sign up and start setting up your digital loyalty programme

Choose the stamping method that suits your business

Kiosk-style stamping can be useful if the guest can easily access the device, follow the process independently, and the staff member can assist if necessary. It does not need to replace staff-assisted stamping in every situation. You can also use it as an additional option.

Guests connect to stmpr’s digital loyalty card, which is based on Apple Wallet and Google Wallet, via a QR code, and can then use their Wallet card without needing a separate app. For kiosk mode, you can set waiting times and daily limits; the activity log allows you to track transactions, whilst logout is protected by a PIN code. These are useful controls, but they do not guarantee the prevention of all misuse. Clearly communicated rules for stamping and redeeming help both guests and staff.

Before you start, consider where to position the camera-equipped device, how guests will connect to it, and who will monitor its use. Then set the stamp count and rewards that suit your business. Your business is the data controller for the guest data collected upon sign-up.

Sign up and start setting up your digital loyalty programme

Start with a straightforward process, then tailor the use of kiosk mode to your guest traffic. This way, the loyalty programme can enhance the guest experience in a way that suits your day-to-day operations.

Frequently asked questions about kiosk mode

What is kiosk mode stamping?

With kiosk mode stamping, the guest independently scans the QR code on their Wallet card using a device with a camera and receives a stamp on their digital loyalty card. Kiosk mode can be used as a supplement to staff-assisted stamping. The business determines the conditions under which a stamp is awarded and what rewards can be collected.

Do guests need a separate app or a special device to use kiosk mode?

They do not need to download a separate stmpr app, but a device with a camera is required for kiosk mode. The guest joins the loyalty programme via a QR code, then saves their card to Apple Wallet or Google Wallet. When collecting a stamp, they show this Wallet card to the kiosk’s camera. The appearance of the card may vary from device to device, as it is displayed by the Wallet service.

Does kiosk mode prevent all forms of fraud?

No. Kiosk mode does not guarantee the prevention of all fraud. Usage may be regulated by waiting times and daily limits; transactions can be tracked in the activity log; and logging out is protected by a PIN. These provide controls, but do not replace the need for operational supervision. Clear rules on stamping and redemption help both guests and staff.

What happens if the QR code cannot be scanned?

A staff member can assist with checking in using the scanner app if the QR code cannot be read. The four-digit backup code on the Wallet card can be used instead of scanning. The scanner app can work offline even with a weak Wi-Fi signal. If an error occurs, follow the service’s troubleshooting guide; do not try to guess at solutions.

Does kiosk mode automatically redeem the guest’s reward?

Kiosk mode enables self-service stamp collection; it does not mean that the reward is automatically redeemed. The business determines the number of stamps required, the reward and the conditions for redemption. When a customer reaches the required number of stamps, they can redeem their reward in accordance with the specified rules. Make these conditions clear so that both the customer and the staff member know what the next step is.

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