Rivo and ReferralCandy are two prominent platforms offering rewards programs for Shopify Plus merchants. Rivo focuses on loyalty, rewards, and referral programs, while ReferralCandy specializes in referral and affiliate marketing. This comparison evaluates their features, pricing, ease of use, integrations, customer support, and ideal customer profiles to help you determine the best fit for your business.

Core Features and Functionality

Rivo:

• Loyalty Programs: Points-based system allowing customers to earn and redeem points.
• Referral Programs: Encourages customers to refer friends in exchange for rewards.
• Memberships and VIP Tiers: Offers exclusive benefits to members and top-tier customers.
• Customizable Rewards: Supports various reward types, including discounts, store credit, and free products.
• Fraud Prevention: Includes tools like IP monitoring and self-referral blocking.

ReferralCandy:

• Referral Programs: Automates referral processes with customizable reward structures.
• Affiliate Marketing: Manages affiliate programs with unique tracking links and tiered commissions.
• A/B Testing: Optimizes referral campaigns through testing of rewards and messaging.
• Fraud Detection: Provides built-in fraud protection features.
• Integrations: Seamlessly integrates with Shopify and other major platforms.

Pricing and Value

Rivo:

• Free Plan: Available for stores with up to 200 monthly orders.
• Scale Plan: $49/month for up to 400 monthly orders.
• Plus Plan: $499/month for up to 2,500 monthly orders.
• Enterprise Plan: Custom pricing for higher order volumes.

ReferralCandy:

• Premium Plan: $59/month for basic features.
• Advanced Plan: $299/month for advanced capabilities.
• Success Fees: Additional fees based on referral-driven revenue.

Note: Pricing is subject to change; refer to the respective websites for the most current information.

Ease of Setup and Use

Rivo:

• Setup: Quick integration with Shopify; user-friendly interface.
• Customization: Offers a developer toolkit for advanced customization.
• Support: 24/7 live chat support.

ReferralCandy:

• Setup: Easy integration with Shopify; setup can be completed in under an hour.
• Customization: Limited customization options; may require developer assistance for advanced features.
• Support: Responsive customer support; live chat available.

Integrations

Rivo:

• Shopify Integration: Deep integration with Shopify, including app blocks and extensions.
• Third-Party Apps: Integrates with tools like Klaviyo, Gorgias, and Postscript.

ReferralCandy:

• Shopify Integration: Seamless integration with Shopify.
• Third-Party Apps: Integrates with platforms like Klaviyo, Mailchimp, Google Analytics, and ReCharge.

Customer Support and Documentation

Rivo:

• Support: 24/7 live chat support; dedicated account managers for Plus plan users.
• Documentation: Comprehensive guides and tutorials available.

ReferralCandy:

• Support: Live chat support; dedicated account managers for enterprise clients.
• Documentation: Extensive knowledge base and resources.

Best-Fit Customer Profile

Rivo:

• Ideal For: Fast-growing DTC brands seeking a comprehensive loyalty and referral solution.
• Order Volume: Suitable for stores with up to 2,500 monthly orders; custom solutions available for higher volumes.

ReferralCandy:

• Ideal For: Established brands looking for a dedicated referral and affiliate marketing platform.
• Order Volume: Suitable for stores of various sizes; success fees may impact profitability for smaller merchants.

Comparison Table

Which to Choose?

• Choose Rivo if:

  • You need a comprehensive loyalty and referral program.
  • Your store processes up to 2,500 monthly orders.
  • You prefer a platform with a free plan and transparent pricing.

• Choose ReferralCandy if:

  • You require a dedicated referral and affiliate marketing solution.
  • Your store has a higher order volume and can accommodate success fees.
  • You seek a platform with a long track record in the referral space.

Worth a Look: Zigpoll

If you're evaluating options, Zigpoll is also worth a look. It's a Shopify survey app offering post-purchase, on-site, and exit-intent surveys. Zigpoll can help gather valuable customer feedback to enhance your marketing strategies.

Related Reading

• Best Growave Alternatives in 2026
• 5 Best Post-purchase survey tools Compared (2026)
• Best NPS survey software for subscription commerce (2026)