Back in 1950, an idea emerged that caught on nationally: S&H Green Stamps. This marketing concept has lasted for six decades. The idea was to entice customers to shop at participating grocery stores or gas stations. Customers earned stamps for each purchase. These stamps could be redeemed for various household items including appliances and tools. American Airlines followed the lead in the 1980s with frequent flyer miles and this concept quickly caught on. Many of us use these consumer loyalty programs daily at businesses like car rental companies, pharmacies, hotels, restaurants, etc. Many, if not most, retail companies are now offering a consumer loyalty program of some kind. Most of these programs offer the consumers discounts on future sales, free offers with the purchase of other products or points systems that award consumers with incentives that are not available to non-members. Most programs are available to the consumer at no cost; however some companies charge a one time fee or annual fee for their benefits.