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Global apparel retailer Gap is back in the headlines after announcing the launch of a new membership program, dubbed “Encore,” last week.
The multi-tiered program — with “Core,” “Premier” and “All-Access” levels — gives shoppers a chance to earn points and redeem rewards across all four of Gap Inc.’s iconic brands: Old Navy, Gap, Banana Republic and Athleta. The rebranded loyalty program also introduces an Encore credit card, which offers cardmembers the “most expansive earning opportunities,” per a release, in addition to a host of fashion and entertainment perks.
Here’s what to know about the Gap Encore membership program, plus a look at some top trending pieces to pick up online at Gap.com right now.
What Are the Gap Encore Tiers?
Gap’s new Encore points program offers three tiers: Core, Premier and All-Access. The basic Encore program is free to join, while the Encore Mastercard is by application only online. Shoppers can jump to the next tier based on their annual spend or card member status. For example, you can move from the Core to Premier level after just $350 in annual spend across all the Gap Inc. brands in-store and online.
This is a program, Gap says, that is “rewarding both engagement and long-term relationships.”
What Are the Gap Encore Perks?
In general, all three tiers offer perks like free shipping, early access to shop limited-edition collections, a yearly “birthday bonus” gift, and points that you can redeem for apparel and gift cards online. Members also have the ability to save with the “Create Your Own Sale Day” perk, which lets you pick one day a year where you save 15% off your entire purchase.
Core and Premier status members earn five points per dollar spent at the Gap family of brands (which also include Gap Factory and Banana Republic Factory) ; Encore Mastercard holders earn 25 points per dollar spent. Encore card holders also earn 15 points per dollar spent at other apparel brands, and five points per $1 spent at everywhere else that Mastercard is accepted. Worth noting: Purchases at Amazon, Target, Walmart and wholesale clubs like Sam’s Club and Costco are excluded.
All-Access card members get free alterations at Banana Republic and the ability for extended returns, with up to 60 days from purchase to send something back.
Gap is also touting new “fashion, entertainment and cultural moments for members,” including the ability to redeem Encore points for Disney gift cards, AMC theater tickets and “never-before-sold items and “limited-run products” — think signed accessories by Athleta brand ambassador and Olympic champion Simone Biles, or special-edition Gap and Old Navy bag charms. Members can also redeem their points for one-of-a-kind experiences, like the chance to win a trip to New York City to meet with Zac Posen, the current EVP and creative director of Gap Inc. Gap says Encore card members will also get “priority access to select experiences and enhanced benefits” with details to be announced later.
How to Apply for a Gap Encore Credit Card
Gap, Banana Republic and Old Navy have long offered their own branded credit cards, but the Encore Mastercard combines all the brands — and their perks — into one. The new card is offered by Barclays, and enrollment is now available online and in stores across Old Navy, Gap, Banana Republic and Athleta.
There is no annual fee for the card and you can also add additional users and card holders. Keep in mind that purchases made by authorized users will earn points that will be deposited into your rewards account.
“Fashion is entertainment, and today’s customers aren’t just buying apparel, they’re buying into brands that shape culture and tell compelling stories,” says Richard Dickson, President and Chief Executive Officer of Gap Inc. in a press release. “Encore connects our brands and partnerships in new ways to meet that demand and change how customers engage with our brands. By bringing fashion, entertainment and access together, we are building momentum, deepening relationships and creating long-term value across our portfolio.”
“Encore is a powerful new tool to bring our Fashiontainment platform to life,” adds Pam Kaufman, Chief Entertainment Officer of Gap Inc. “Through partners like Disney, NBCUniversal and AMC Theatres, we can translate what people love on screens and stages into experiences they can actually access – from early drops and exclusives to cultural moments you can’t get anywhere else. It’s a new way to participate in entertainment through style, and to feel closer to our brands.”
What to Buy at Gap Right Now
The new Encore loyalty program is officially in effect, just in time for Gap’s spring sale, which gets you up to 50% off men’s and women’s basics, seasonal staples and collaborative drops. Here’s a look at some of the best pieces to pick up online right now.
UltraSoft Oversized Balloon-Sleeve Icon Denim Jacket
A boxy and oversized reinterpretation of the classic Gap denim jacket, this one features a dark wash, relaxed sleeves and “the softest denim ever made,” per a product description online.
CashSoft Crop Cardigan
Gap’s popular cardigan is made from a super-soft cotton and nylon blend, and available in regular, petite and tall sizes. Choose from more than ten colorways on sale online.
Low Rise Lace-Up Long & Lean Jeans
Gap’s bestselling women’s jeans cut a flattering figure for all body types and styles, with more than 20 different washes available and inclusive sizing. What we like: this pair of jeans is made in part with recycled materials, and they are part of Gap’s “Washwell” program, which uses at least 20% less water during the production process.
CashSoft Relaxed Polo Sweater
This knit long-sleeve polo is as presentable for the office as it is for dinner or as a layering piece for travel. Choose from two colors on sale, in sizes XS to XXXL.
NBA Varsity Jacket
This wool-blend varsity jacket is part of Gap’s official collaboration with the NBA, celebrating the league’s milestone 75th anniversary. The jacket features the NBA logo on the back and crests on the sleeves and chest pocket marking Gap’s San Francisco Bay area roots.
According to the company, Gap’s rebranded loyalty program is among the largest rewards programs in the U.S., with a reported 40 million active members across the Gap Inc. brands.
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