Tesco Announces Major Clubcard Expansion to Include Under-18s
Tesco has revealed plans to extend its Clubcard loyalty scheme to under-18s for the first time this year, marking a significant shift in supermarket retail practices. This move comes after sustained pressure from consumer advocacy groups and regulatory bodies calling for greater inclusivity in loyalty programs.
What the Clubcard Expansion Means for Shoppers
The Clubcard scheme, which provides discounted prices on thousands of products and allows members to earn points for vouchers, will now be accessible to younger customers. This expansion is expected to enhance shopping experiences for families and teenagers, offering them the same benefits as adult members.
Consumer champion Which? and other campaigners have welcomed the announcement, having previously criticised supermarkets for imposing what they termed 'unfair restrictions' on loyalty schemes. The Competition and Markets Authority (CMA) had also urged supermarkets to make loyalty prices more accessible, specifically highlighting the need to include under-18s.
Current Landscape of Supermarket Loyalty Schemes
Currently, most supermarket loyalty schemes require members to be 18 or over, creating a barrier for younger shoppers. However, some retailers, such as Morrisons and Co-op, have already introduced alternative access methods for younger customers. Tesco's decision to fully integrate under-18s into its Clubcard program sets a new precedent in the industry, potentially prompting other supermarkets to follow suit.
This expansion is part of a broader trend towards more inclusive retail practices, driven by regulatory scrutiny and consumer demand for fairness. By opening up Clubcard to under-18s, Tesco aims to foster loyalty from a younger demographic while addressing concerns about equity in pricing and access.
The move is likely to impact how supermarkets design and market their loyalty schemes in the future, with a greater emphasis on accessibility and inclusivity across all age groups.
