Curaleaf, one of the nation’s largest multi-state cannabis operators, has built a rewards program designed for simplicity and accessibility. Across multiple platforms—from Reddit discussions to Yelp and Leafly reviews—customers have weighed in on what the program gets right and where it still leaves some value untapped. This analysis explores the sentiment from real users, highlighting both strengths and shortcomings of the program.
How the Program Works
At its core, Curaleaf’s loyalty system offers a direct value proposition: shoppers typically earn $5 in credit for every $100 spent, translating to a straightforward 5% cashback rate. Points accumulate automatically at checkout, and unlike some competitors, they can generally be redeemed at any time without a minimum threshold. Users frequently describe this as one of the program’s standout features, praising its transparency and flexibility.
For those who spend regularly, Curaleaf introduces higher-tier perks. Customers reporting VIP status cite cashback rates climbing closer to 8%, adding further incentive for loyalty. Another feature drawing approval is point portability—points accrued at one location can typically be redeemed at any other Curaleaf store within the same state, a benefit not universally offered by competing chains.
Promotions and Added Value
Curaleaf bolsters its standard cashback with regular promotions. Double-point events and targeted discounts on branded products like Select have proven popular. Customers highlight deals such as Double Point Tuesdays and special savings days when loyalty points stretch further. The integration of rewards tracking within Curaleaf’s app is also widely seen as a convenience win, allowing customers to monitor their points, place orders, and plan redemptions all in one place.
Pain Points and Criticism
Yet despite these positives, customer feedback also reveals areas of frustration. One common complaint centers on point expirations. While the official policy is often state-specific, multiple customers report losing points due to prolonged inactivity or misunderstanding expiration timelines. In some cases, users claim their points vanished following returns or order cancellations, with limited resolution from customer service.
The program’s promotional strategy also garners mixed reviews. While branded product discounts are appreciated, some shoppers feel that core categories — particularly flower — are frequently excluded from meaningful loyalty bonuses. This exclusion has led to perceptions that promotions are designed to drive add-on purchases rather than reward everyday buying habits.
Additionally, despite the program’s apparent simplicity, confusion persists around the exact point-to-dollar conversion, especially across different states or during promotional periods. This lack of clarity has resulted in occasional misaligned expectations at checkout, particularly for newer customers.
The Bottom Line
For most consumers, Curaleaf’s rewards program delivers tangible benefits. The clear cashback structure, flexible redemption, and frequent promotional boosts position it as one of the more user-friendly loyalty programs among major MSOs. The ability to redeem points without arbitrary minimums and the seamless app integration further enhance the customer experience.
Still, there’s room for refinement. Enhanced transparency on point policies, broader promotional inclusion (particularly for flower), and improved customer support when issues arise would go a long way toward elevating the program. As the cannabis retail landscape grows more competitive, fine-tuning these elements could help Curaleaf strengthen consumer loyalty and differentiate itself further.