Penn National Gaming and Choice Hotels International, which operates the Ascend Collection brand, have agreed a deal to combine both companies’ loyalty schemes.
The agreement allows members of Penn National Gaming’s MyChoice loyalty program to earn loyalty points at Choice’s hotels and vice versa for, Choice’s Choice Privilege program.
In addition, customers may book stays at Penn National properties through Choice’s booking platform.
“With these exciting Penn properties joining Choice and our Ascend Hotel Collection network, we will be able to provide guests even more upscale travel experiences and a wider variety of fun and entertainment on the road,” Robert McDowell, chief commercial officer of Choice Hotels, said.
“Teaming up with Penn positions our more than 47m Choice Privileges members to easily book a casino resort directly with Choice while continuing to earn points.”
Jennifer Weissman, senior vice president and chief marketing officer at Penn National Gaming, said the operator always looked for new ways in which to engage with its loyalty program members.
“We are excited to provide our most loyal customers with even more valuable ways to engage with the mychoice loyalty program,” Weissman said. “This new alliance with Choice Hotels unlocks access to award-winning hospitality experiences where our mychoice guests can earn, redeem and be recognized for their continued loyalty.”
Jamie Russo, vice president for loyalty programs and customer engagement at Choice Hotels, pointed out that internal research had shown that a large number of Choice customers had an interest in gaming.
“We’re constantly exploring new ways to provide our loyal guests with more options for their next adventure on the road while also being able to earn and redeem points,” Russo explained. “Our new collaboration offers a great opportunity for Choice Privileges members to enjoy thrilling experiences at Penn’s properties around the country.
“Our research shows that not only do many of our Choice Privileges members already enjoy gaming, but a significant number live within driving distance from a Penn property — so we know they will be excited to visit these top casino brands and be part of the action.”
In August 2020, Penn National Gaming launched a social casino app, which is also integrated with the MyChoice program, powered by GAN. The operator’s Barstool-branded sportsbook product, which launched in Pennsylvania in September and Indiana and Michigan at the start of this year, is also integrated with MyChoice.
Penn National Gaming is one of many land-based operators that has expanded its loyalty program recently. MGM’s M Life Rewards program has been integrated with its BetMGM product, while Eldorado players joined Caesars’ highly regarded loyalty scheme after the two operators merged last year.