The Freddie awards have been around since 1988 and were started by InsideFlyer magazine’s Randy Petersen. The awards are named in honor of Sir Freddie Laker in honor of his accomplishments in marketing travel during the 1970s. The Freddie awards have become the most prestigious member-generated awards in the travel loyalty industry. The awards event is held each spring.
The 2016 Freddie Awards were held on April 28th in Las Vegas. Southwest Airlines Rapid Rewards took home best airline program of the year. Marriott Rewards took home best hotel program of the year. The American Express Starwood Preferred Guest took home the award for best loyalty credit card.