Tesco has introduced a Clubcard specifically for 16 and 17-year-olds, granting younger customers access to the loyalty scheme's discounted prices for the first time. The UK's largest supermarket chain announced that the new Clubcard for 16-17s will also enable members to accumulate points, which can be converted into vouchers for money off at checkout.
Background and Criticism
The move comes in response to criticism from consumer groups, who argued that younger customers were unfairly excluded from cheaper grocery prices due to age restrictions on loyalty schemes. Previously, individuals under 18 could not participate in Tesco's Clubcard program, missing out on savings available to older shoppers.
How the New Clubcard Works
The Clubcard for 16-17s is exclusively digital and accessible only through the Tesco app or website. To join, a teenager must be invited from the Clubcard account of a parent or guardian. Tesco advised that the easiest way to set this up is for a parent or guardian to tap the identity icon in the top corner of their Tesco app, navigate to account settings, and click the “invite to Clubcard” button. This button is only visible to Clubcard members using the latest version of the app, so users may need to update it if the option is not showing.
Company Statement
Tesco Group membership and loyalty director Shama Wilson expressed enthusiasm about the launch: “We are delighted to be giving younger customers access to Tesco Clubcard for the first time, and we have no doubt that it will prove popular with 16 and 17-year-olds, whether they are shopping in one of our ‘big Tesco’ or ‘little Tesco’ stores. From today, our new Clubcard for 16-17s members will not only be able to get Clubcard prices in-store, including our iconic Tesco lunchtime meal deal for just £3.85, but also collect points that they can turn into vouchers for money off their in-store shopping.”
Clubcard Usage and Reach
Tesco's Clubcard program, which has been running for over 30 years, is used in more than 80% of sales at the supermarket, according to company figures. More than 24 million UK households are currently signed up to the scheme. The launch of the 16-17s Clubcard is expected to further expand its reach and address previous criticisms of age-based exclusion.
