Tesco, Sainsbury's and Lidl shoppers risk missing out on discounts

In the UK, millions of supermarket customers are facing exclusions from loyalty schemes due to various factors outside their control. Research conducted by Which? revealed that age requirements, residency conditions, and digital accessibility are significant barriers for many potential members. For instance, major retailers like Tesco, Sainsbury's, and Lidl require customers to be 18 or older to join their loyalty programs. In contrast, Co-op allows younger customers to participate with parental consent. The findings highlight a lack of uniformity in loyalty scheme policies across retailers. Overall, these restrictions may lead to missed savings opportunities for consumers, particularly younger individuals or those without access to digital technology. Some supermarkets, such as Co-op, provide alternative membership options for those under 16; however, many others maintain stringent age and digital access requirements. It has become increasingly apparent that these disparities in loyalty schemes can exclude a substantial number of potential shoppers. Harry Rose, the editor of Which? magazine, emphasized the need for retailers to adopt more inclusive approaches in their loyalty programs. The disparities in eligibility criteria across different brands reveal a concerning trend that could detach certain consumer segments from incentives aimed at promoting customer loyalty. As such, the consumer group advocates for more comprehensive solutions to ensure equitable access to benefits for all customers, regardless of age or connection to modern technology.