THE URBAN STRIPMALL · CUSTOMER GUIDE

Shopping Mode vs. USM Rewards Mode

One marketplace. Two distinct ways to explore. This guide explains what each mode does, how to get started, where points fit in, and why some merchandise is available only in Shopping Mode.

01 · SHOP & DISCOVER

Shopping Mode

Best for: Browsing the full range of publicly available shopping options and purchasing with accepted payment methods.

Explore available USM marketplace vendors and eligible products.
Pay using the payment methods offered at the applicable checkout.
Earn USM Points on qualifying purchases when the current rewards rules make the purchase eligible.
Where a supported checkout explicitly offers it, available points may also be usable toward eligible purchases.
Find Shopping-only areas and offerings, including memberships and restricted product categories where applicable.

Remember: Shopping Mode does not guarantee that every item earns or accepts reward points. Checkout eligibility and the published program rules control.

02 · USE YOUR POINTS

USM Rewards Mode

Best for: Browsing merchandise that is specifically eligible for redemption with USM Points.

See participating USM-owned rewards merchandise and eligible offers.
Use your available USM Points for supported redemptions, subject to account balance and eligibility.
Check the point requirement before proceeding with an eligible redemption.
Outside vendors are not automatically part of Rewards Mode.
Memberships and Shopping-only items are not unlocked by switching to Rewards Mode.

Remember: Rewards Mode is a points-redemption experience, not a cash-shopping checkout. Shipping, applicable taxes, and other permitted charges may require separate payment.

How to get started

Choose your mode: Tap Shopping Mode to browse and purchase normally, or Rewards Mode to explore points-eligible merchandise.
Sign in or register when needed: An account may be required to see your available points and make eligible redemptions.
Browse carefully: Read each item’s details, eligibility, point requirement or price, and shipping information.
Confirm your checkout: Follow the displayed payment or redemption workflow. Do not assume a Shopping-only item can be purchased with points.
Switch when you wish: Use the site’s Shopping/Rewards mode controls to move between experiences. Your selection changes the storefront experience, not your account balance.

How USM Points work

USM Points are subject to program rules and account eligibility. Qualifying shopping activity or other authorized rewards opportunities may earn points. Available point balances and redemption requirements determine which eligible rewards you can redeem.

Do not treat points as cash, a transferable cash balance, or a promise that any particular product can be purchased with points. Points earning, reversals, exclusions and eligible transactions are governed by the official USM Rewards & Referral Rules.

For exact earning methods, current requirements, exceptions, referral conditions and any applicable limits, consult the official Rewards & Referral Rules before relying on an offer.

Frequently asked questions

Is Shopping Mode the same as Rewards Mode?

No. Shopping Mode supports normal shopping with accepted payment methods; Rewards Mode is dedicated to merchandise eligible for USM Points redemption.

Can I use Rewards Mode to redeem from every vendor?

No. Redemption is limited to eligible participating USM-owned merchandise. External marketplace vendors do not automatically participate.

Why is an image grayed out or marked Shopping Mode Only?

That item or category is restricted from the current Rewards experience. Switch to Shopping Mode to explore its normal access or purchase path, subject to its own eligibility rules.

Can I use points for memberships or the Vault?

Memberships and designated Shopping-only areas follow their own access and purchase rules. Changing modes does not grant access or convert these offerings into Rewards merchandise.

Do I need to pay anything if I redeem with points?

Depending on the eligible redemption, shipping and applicable taxes may remain payable. Review the actual redemption checkout before confirming.

Will changing modes spend or change my points?

No. Choosing a mode changes the browsing experience. Points are affected by eligible rewards transactions and program rules, not by merely pressing a mode button.

Where do I see exact requirements?

Check the applicable product or redemption page and the USM Rewards & Referral Rules. The Terms & Conditions provide additional marketplace conditions.