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Case Studies
How To Design A Loyalty Scheme That Actually Motivates People

How to get the most from Case Studies

BFM+Exclusive

How To Design A Loyalty Scheme That Actually Motivates People

8 mins
about Costa
Costa Coffee Logo 1
  • Case study
Skills you'll build
  • How to use the Goal Gradient Effect

  • Spinning the flywheel of purchases

  • Why your rules need to be clear

During the 1930s, psychologists used rats in a maze to show that motivation intensifies as you make progress towards a goal.

The nearer the rats got to the food, the less likely they were to flee from loud noises.

The scientists also put tiny harnesses on them, attached to a spring scale, and measured their pulling strength as they got closer to the reward—they exerted much more physical effort the closer they were.

The point they were proving is that progress itself can be motivating.

This is known as the 🥅 Goal Gradient Effect, and this case study will show you how I leverage it with clients.

Case study

Peter Ramsey, Built for Mars Founder

Written by Peter Ramsey

Consultant to 100+ companies

Part of:
Purchases & Subscriptions · Growth Hacking
Published: 19/03/2026
Last edited: 26/05/2026

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