This guide will show you the different types of Memberships you can create in Phorest, allowing you to find the one that best suits your business.
There are three different types of memberships that you can create. Each has its own unique characteristics and attractive selling points. You can choose the option that works best for your business and membership goals.
Credit Membership
Often Known As: 'Beauty Bank' or 'Value Model'.
How it Works: Members pay a recurring fee to receive a credit amount, which can be redeemed against services and/or products throughout each billing cycle.
Unused credits can roll over (subject to your policy), allowing clients to save for higher-priced items. Memberships can be open-ended or have a set term.
Within a Credit Membership, you can also offer discounts as well as custom benefits such as priority booking, access to VIP events, validated parking, etc.
Selling Points:
- High flexibility - clients can mix and match services or save for big treatments.
- Works well for businesses with diverse menus or higher-ticket services.
- Predictable revenue for the business without committing to specific services.
Best Suited For: Med spas, aesthetic clinics, and multi-service salons where clients' needs can vary, such as a mix of cuts, colors, or advanced treatments. Appeals to clients who value choice or budgeting for bigger services.
Service Membership
Often Known As: 'Service Subscription' or 'Package Membership'.
How it Works: Clients pay a recurring fee for a set number of services or a choice from a specific menu of services, e.g., two blow-drys per month, or 'choose from three facials and three massages per month'.
Within a Service Membership, you can also offer discounts as well as custom benefits such as priority booking, access to VIP events, validated parking, etc.
Selling Points:
- A predictable routine for clients, encouraging regular visits.
- Easy to market: “Get your [service] every month for one flat price.”
- Builds loyalty and repeat bookings.
Best Suited For: Hair salons offering regular maintenance services (e.g., blowouts), spas with facials or massages, nail bars, or lash studios. Generally suited for businesses seeking consistent foot traffic and clients who prefer routine care.
Discount Membership
Often Known As: 'Discount Pass' or 'VIP Club'.
How it Works: Clients pay a recurring fee to unlock ongoing discounts (e.g., 15% off services/products) or VIP perks. No credit or service is offered as part of the membership.
Selling Points:
- Very straightforward, with no service or credit tracking required.
- Encourages more frequent visits and upsell opportunities ('your money's worth' psychology).
- Create a 'VIP club' feel that boosts loyalty.
Best Suited For: Full-service salons, spas, or med spas wanting a straightforward loyalty program. Good entry point for businesses new to memberships, or targeting deal-seeking, repeat clients.
Next Steps: Create a Membership
Once you've decided what type of Membership you would like to create, click here for a guide on how to get started.