Leading supermarkets and retailers are shutting out millions of shoppers from their loyalty schemes, according to Which?
This is what the retailers had to say:
Boots
At Boots we are committed to providing great prices and value for money for all customers through a wide range of deals, discounts and promotions. Anyone aged 13 or above with a UK postal address can also join the Boots Advantage Card scheme. Members can benefit from personalised and exclusive offers in-store, online, through our app and in our mailings.
Co-op
Co-op told Which? that anyone of any age can become a member. For those under the age of 16, to become a Co-op member permission from a parent or guardian is needed. To become a member if under the age of 16, a temporary membership card can be purchased and registered over the phone – a parent or guardian must be present to give their permission during registration.
Lidl
Lidl told Which? that their app Lidl Plus forms part of their commitment to providing customers with the best value, allowing them to further enhance their customer experience with new features and exclusive campaigns that go beyond promotions.
They said this is on top of the fact that as a discounter, everything they do is designed to give households access to good food at low prices. Nonetheless, they remain mindful of those who don’t have access to a smartphone or tablet and continue to offer in-store promotions through our Pick of The Week offers.
The age restriction in place is in line with legal requirements relating to elements within the app such as certain promotions or partner offers, including those where adult consent is required. Lidl says that they are not aware of any other schemes being as low as 12/13.
Nectar
We strive to make it as easy and convenient as possible for customers to join Nectar. You can sign-up in several ways, including via our website or mobile app, registering in-store with one of our colleagues, or by contacting our Nectar Helpline team over the phone.
The spokesperson added that if a customer contacts the Nectar Helpline team they can manually register for a Nectar account without requiring an email address or mobile number. Additional Cardholders are required to be over 18, except where they are on the account of their parent or legal guardian.
Superdrug
As an accessible retailer, we aim to offer great value to all our customers. Every month we give our loyal Health & Beautycard members access to hundreds of health & beauty products at a lower price.
Delivery is only available to addresses within the UK and Republic of Ireland, therefore the Health & Beauty Card membership reflects this and is available to residents of the United Kingdom over the age of 13 or Republic of Ireland (over the age of 16). Customers can sign up and register for a physical H&B card or a digital card either in store, online or via the Superdrug app.
Superdrug also reiterated that you don’t need an address to become a member. Customers can sign up in store or online using their name and either an email address, address or phone number.
Tesco
Clubcard unlocks the best value at Tesco, with shoppers able to save £360 a year thanks to Clubcard Prices*. It is easy and free to sign up and join the 22 million UK households who already have a Tesco Clubcard.
Waitrose
We work hard to give myWaitrose customers a broad range of benefits, including personalised vouchers, exclusive promotions, free hot drinks, magazines and more.
Our digital approach allows us to personalise offers and share benefits quickly, easily and securely. Our age and address requirements are in line with some other retailers and reflect our store locations.
