How to cultivate brand loyalty (strategies and examples)

In a sea of competing products and offers, cultivating brand loyalty is the only way to get your customers to commit.

The modern consumer is looking for more than just a good deal—they want brands they can trust. They want brands that consistently provide superior customer care experiences that adapt alongside their changing preferences. Once that trust is secured, businesses can reap the benefits.

If you want to keep your hard-earned customers for the long haul, keep reading. In this article, we'll delve into the fundamentals of brand loyalty and how to cultivate it. We also gathered three examples of brands that have excelled in fostering loyalty to inspire your own strategy

What is brand loyalty?

Brand loyalty describes a consumer’s inclination to keep choosing a specific brand, even in the face of competitive offers or challenges. This loyalty is often a result of the value a brand offers to its consumers. For example, superior customer experiences drive more loyalty.

In that sense, these brand-consumer bonds are similar to everyday relationships. Think about it: Lasting friendships aren’t formed after a single trip to the movies. Instead, they evolve gradually as two individuals spend more time together.

The same goes for brand loyalty. It develops over time as a brand shows its commitment to customer care and satisfaction.

Brand loyalty vs. brand affinity: What’s the difference?

Brand affinity is the belief that a business aligns with the values or principles of its customers. While brand loyalty refers to the actions consumers take with a specific brand, brand affinity encompasses the emotional ties between consumers and a brand.

So which is more important? The answer is both. Brand affinity drives brand loyalty by forging deeper connections between a brand and its consumers. Similarly, brand loyalty can drive brand affinity through positive word-of-mouth recommendations.

Take Stanley, for instance. Their now famous Adventure Quencher Travel Tumbler achieved viral fame on social media, particularly resonating with Millennial and Gen Z women.

RUN (or drive) to dicks for PINK STANLEYS!! #stanley #stanleycups

♬ original sound ' sarah lynn