Loyalty Cards: THE BEST, THE BAD, and the Ugly

 Loyalty Cards: THE BEST, THE BAD, and the Ugly

There was a time when loyalty cards were primarily to collect points every time you spent. The points would grow and eventually be converted to vouchers for money off. Or, they could accrue as cash that could be used to knock off the cost of your purchases.

These days, loyalty cards do so much more. It is still possible to earn points however, they also access discounts, enjoy cash-back deals, and get exclusive rewards. But it can be a bit difficult to figure out which cards provide the most lucrative offers. Do you really need to shop around to find the most value deals from various cards or should you stay to your favorite shops and enjoy the benefits of being loyal customers? What about cards that does not provide points, but offer rewards instead? Are they worth the cost?

Also Read: How to Start a Blog and Make Money – Passive Income Ideas

Here we review some of the most well-known loyalty cards and applications, along with what to be looking for and how you can maximize the value of your purchases.

Supermarkets

High-Street Beauty

High-Street Books as well as Stationary

High Street Clothing

Coffee Shops

SUPERMARKETS

TESCO CLUBCARD

CARD or APP: Both

Also Read: 12 Legit Ways To Make Money With Facebook Ads

POINTS 1 point per PS1 spent in the store and every PS2 that is used to purchase fuel. Points are also available via Tesco Bank and Mobile.

Value: 150 points are worth PS 1.50. Vouchers are redeemable in stores, however Club card vouchers are worth more when used with Club card partners. This is likely what they are most famous for. Club card boasts more than 300 partners, ranging from theme parks to restaurants and hotels.

Benefits: Another advantage is that many offers in stores are only for Club card members. Another reason to join.

Extras: For regular shoppers who are looking to save greater, purchase Club card Plus for PS 7.99 a month. Through Club card Plus you will receive 10% off of two large shops per month, as well as 10% off all Tesco brand products, as well as F&F in-store.

VERDICT:

Tesco Club card Vouchers are able to offer everything from shopping discounts to promotions only for members however they can come to their own when you use them to pay for days out and dining out. You can convert fifty cents worth Club card vouchers in PS1.50 worth of reward partner vouchers that you can purchase on Prezzie or Lizzie as an example. If you do this it is among some of the best schemes available.

SALISBURY NECTAR

CARD or APP: Both

Points 1 point per every PlayStation 1 spent in stores, online or at the Salisbury website.

The value of 500 points is worth PS2.50 that can be spent in the store or on the internet.

PROFITS Weekly personalized offers.

Extras: You can accumulate and spend points with Sainbury major brand partners. These are Argos, eBay, Sky Store and Vue. The majority of partners offer customers 2 points per PS1 however some partners provide more. Visit their website for more details.

VERDICT:

Even if you rarely go to Salisbury It is worth investing in an Nectar card to earn points you earn from Salisbury partners. Check out the places you are able to earn points. They accumulate and can be used in a variety of places that it is logical.

ASDA REWARDS

CARD or APP: App

Rewards: Customers can collect “Asda Pounds” by purchasing Star Products or completing Missions.

Value: Star Product and Mission earnings (the Asda Pounds) are accumulated and displayed as a sum total on your account in the Cashpot. The balance is able to become vouchers for be used in stores.

Benefits: It is possible to have the option of turning the Cashpot balance into an Boost voucherthat can increase its value by a particular amount.

Extras: Asda also has a Christmas Savings Card. The days leading up to Christmas shoppers can deposit some additional PSs to savings accounts.

VERDICT:

It is only worthwhile if are a loyal and regular Asda customer. If you make your weekly shopping there, you will benefit from the application. In other cases, there is not much to gain.

COOP MEMBERSHIP

Card or an APP both cost PS1 the opportunity to sign up.

REWARDS Rewards: This Co-op loyalty card does not give you points, but you do earn cash back on purchases. Members can also select two vouchers for money-saving each week. These vouchers are then added to their app or card.

Value 2p per PS1 that is spent on certain Co-op services and products.

PROFITS Co-op will match the earnings you earn and donates exactly the amount you earn to help local and community-based causes and organizations.

Extras: The loyalty scheme includes exclusive membership offers and personalized promotions, as well as discounts on Co-op-owned services like funerals and insurance.

VERDICT:

The weekly cash-back vouchers can be useful for small-scale shops and the rewards will add to. Co-op is especially beneficial for people with a social conscience since you are donating money to charitable causes each when you make use of the card.

ICELAND BONUS

CARD or APP: Both

Rewards: Iceland does not offer points however their loyalty card functions as an account for savings. For each PS20 saved, you give you the PS1 bonus. The system works by notifying the cashier the amount you wish to save, and then transfer it to your credit card or through an app. Thus, if you save PS2 every week, you could save PS109 by the end of the year.

BENEFITS: You are able to spend on your Bonus Card at stores or online. Just inform the cashier the amount you did like to spend. Iceland claim this will make it easier for shoppers to budget and save money. There is no limit to the sum you could save for each purchase.

Extras Special Bonus Card rates and free delivery to your home on purchases of more than PS25 in-store or PS35 online. Card holders also get exclusive deals and special treats for your birthday.

VERDICT:

The card is ideal for committed Iceland customers, and not people who visit occasionally. The savings aspect of the card offers an interesting alternative to typical loyalty programs – it is particularly effective during the months leading up to Christmas.

LIDL PLUS

CARD or APP: App

Rewards: Lidl does not offer points. Users who use the app receive four coupons for money each week, and they are issued on Thursdays. As of the writing time coupons offered 15 percent off chocolate bar and 15 percent off tinned fish, and 10 percent of Hanuka Honey.

PROFITS By using your Lidl Plus app , you also receive cash back (similar with the Iceland Card Bonus) Spending PS100 will earn you PS2 credits, PS200 will give you PS10 credits.

Extras: Every time you shop, you will get scratchcards that give you the possibility of winning PS20 discount on your next purchase. Also, there are discounts offered by partners like three months of Kids Pass membership and up to PS150 off bookings made with Love holidays.

VERDICT:

Despite the tempting temptations of the center aisle shopping, spending PS100 in Lidl often is an expensive purchase, and the savings is not as appealing like other points schemes for stores. The coupons are also restricted. But scratch cards are enjoyable and can add a touch in excitement for your daily shopping.

MyMORRISONS

CARD , or App both (Morrisons launched their loyalty program in May 2021.)

Rewards: Morrison no longer give points, but they do send you customized deals on the items you purchase the most frequently. Rewards can be in the form off vouchers on regular purchases or cash back on your entire purchase.

Extras: Every time you scan your digital card you stand a chance of winning the Basket Bonus which could be anything from PS5 off of the next time you shop to a bouquet of blooms or a tasty treat in the form of a cake.

VERDICT:

Customers who sign to the loyalty program get their coupons electronically This is great for those who use a lot of apps, but less so for those who does not have or does not have the money to buy a phone. Basket Bonus Basket Bonus can be a great method to ensure that customers are using their loyalty cards and offers an array of exciting prizes.

M&S SPARKS

CARD OR APP: Both

Rewards: You ca not earn points by using the Sparks card, but instead you enjoy perks like personalized deals, the chance to get a free gift, or do your shopping done for free.

Benefits: The money off vouchers are worth the investment The offers range from 15 percent off of food items, 20 percent off underwear, or 10% off clothes. They are updated frequently, but it is not always clear when they will be posted.

VERDICT:

The verdict is still out regarding whether or not to purchase the Sparks card. A lot of people prefer to earn points and cash off vouchers, which they can use however they want instead of being targeted towards savings. Another issue is the need to ensure that you load the offers you did like to utilize on the Sparks card. Cashiers are able to help you with this, but they are not always asking. But the savings that can be earned – once they are accessible and loaded on your card are certainly worth it. It is always worth taking the card with you and downloading an app be sure to keep track of frequently.

MY  WAIT ROSE

CARD OR APP Both (You could also purchase the keys fob-type version)

REWARDS: You cannot earn points by using the MyWaitrose card. Instead, you will receive regular vouchers for money off (to apply to your entire shopping spree) personalized vouchers that are based on your shopping routine, and occasionally a gift card.

Benefits: My Wait rose card holders get 20% off of the cheese and meat counters every day, and 20 percent of the counter for fish on Fridays. Additionally, they can enjoy cash back on additional services like dry-cleaning or an issue of a magazine for free.

Extras: Cardholders used to receive a free paper and hot drink. Waitrose have stopped providing the newspaper for free and have put off the free hot beverage. The website states that they are working on bringing this offer back.

VERDICT:

Wait rose is seen as an exclusive retailer and has a lower percentage in the marketplace. Customers are generally loyal, without the benefits of loyalty cards or a lot of deals on money off. This is why the My Wait rose card is worthwhile when you do only occasional treats there. You will still be able to earn money off of the food counters that are fresh and make use of your personalized vouchers for money off.

HIGH STREET – BEAUTY

BOOTS ADVANTAGE ADVANTAGE CARD

CARD or APP: Both

Points: 4 points per each PS1 you spend.

VALUE: 1 point = 1p (so for every PS1, you earn 4p).

Benefits: You are able to spend points at any point so long as they are sufficient to fund the total purchase. Also, since you are not able to use your points to put a little towards the entire purchase but they have to be used to pay for everything you purchase. However, you can purchase a couple of items using your advantage card, and the rest using cash or a credit card.

Extras: Advantage card holders get a complimentary beauty and health magazine, and there are usually a lot of deals, which means you earn points when you purchase specific brand names or when you spend a specific amount. Over 60, you can earn up to 8 points per PS1 for various Boots own products, too.

VERDICT:

One of the most well-known loyalty cards, and with Boots benefit, it truly is worth it to shop. Points are accumulated quickly and are worth more than other loyalty programs.

SUPERDRUG HEALTH & BEAUTY CARD

CARD or APP: Both

points: 1 point for every PS1 that you use.

1. Points = 1p. Points are only available as multiples of. 100 points equal PS1 off 200 points equal PS2 off and so on.

Benefits: Unlike those who use the Boots Advantage Card you are able to make use of your Super drug points in conjunction with cash. If, for instance, your shopping bill is PS7.45 If you have got 500 points you can make use of those points to take PS5 off the total cost and then pay the rest PS2.45 by cash.

Extras: Members receive free delivery on online purchases of more than PS10 (non-members need to spend PS15 for complimentary delivery). Additionally, you will receive discounts on Thursdays and Birthday treats.

VERDICT:

It is not as easy to earn more pennies from points like you get with the Boots Advantage Card, but the Superdrug card allows the use of points to reduce the cost of your shopping. This is a huge benefit for us.

HIGH STREET BOOKS AND STATIONERY

PAPERCHASE TREAT ME

CARD OR APP: Card

REWARDS: As the site states – no points, only benefits! You will receive an PS5 credit to your card for each PS50 spent (limited up to 1 reward for each transaction). New customers also receive 15 percent off their first purchase.

BENEFITS: You could earn cashback on your purchases as well as receive rewards at the end month, as well as the chance to receive a PS5 birthday gift card. Additionally, you will receive an upgrade for delivery online for orders of more than PS30.

Extras: When you buy seven greeting cards in the space of the next 12 months, then you will receive one for free.

VERDICT:

It is perfect for anyone who has a penchant for stationery, but not so great when you only buy one or two cards. The treats are redeemable only for a period of one month after they have been activated. This is not ideal but it is worth it for a chance to redeem a free PS5 vouchers for your birthday.

WATERS TONES PLUS

CARD OR APP: Both

POINTS: Earn a Plus Stamp for every PS10 you spend.

value: 10 Stamps = PS10 worth of money to spend in the store at the cafe, or in the store online.

BENEFITS: Get an exclusive treat every year.

Additional Features: Loyalty card members will be first informed about special sales and discounts and also about special occasions.

VERDICT:

It is an excellent reward scheme. Even if you purchased a few hardbacks or paperbacks per month at Water stones You could be able to get PS10 one year later! It could result in the book for free. If you are a reader this is guaranteed be worth it.

HIGH STREET – CLOTHING

TAXMAN THESAURI

CARD OR APP: Both

REWARDS: Get “keys” each when you shop. The rewards are not contingent on the amount your spend but the frequency you visit an Taxman or Home Sense shop, you can also earn keys on the internet. Find 5 keys and select an award.

Benefits: You can earn at least three keys each day, one at each store and another online. Rewards could be an object, the chance to win a trip or even a trip, or make a donation to charity.

VERDICT:

Another card that pays you for your frequency instead of the amount that you spend. You can earn keys very quickly and earn reward points. There is no minimum amount to spend which means that for those who are loyal you can visit a store every day and earn rewards for a whole week! It is worth it.

H&M

CARD OR APP: App

POINTS: PS1 = 1 point

Value: If you earn between 0 and 299 points, you will get rewards vouchers and offers. When you  have earned 300 points, you will be a Plus Member that gives you access to additional rewards and deals.

PROGRAMS: Get 10% off the first purchase you make when you sign up.

Extras: Members get free delivery on orders that exceed PS20 and also Free Click and Collect, and 25 percent off your birthday. Members also get FREE delivery for all purchases including surprise offers, as well as exclusive access to exclusive collections.

VERDICT:

Even even if you does not buy from H&M often, it is worth installing the app installed on your smartphone and earning points each time you shop. There is nothing to lose and you can enjoy advantages just for being an H&M member.

URBAN OUTFITTERS – UO REWARDS

CARD OR APP: App

POINTS: There is a myriad of options to get UO points. Check out the UO website for a complete list of. There are 75 points to be earned for joining and 50 points when you download the app, 50 points when joining the email service and 30 points for enabling push notifications. That is not even mentioning the push notifications. Additionally, you earn 25 points each time you purchase.

The entry level members enjoy a few advantages, but it requires 300 points to be Silver Members and 600 points to achieve Gold. When you consider you will get 230 points to join the program, you are close to achieving Silver.

value: PS5 voucher for each 100 points.

BENEFITS: All members have early access to sale and the new collections that are launched in addition to exclusive competitions for members and bonus points days. There is a huge list of perks to enjoy – go to the website for all the information.

Additional Features: Current extra perks include Denim Days – earn 10 bonus points every time you purchase jeans, or when you shop at Urban Renewal (the vintage arm of the brand).

VERDICT:

As far as loyalty schemes go, UO Rewards really does pay you back for being a loyal client. Earn points by purchasing any product (from clothes to scrunchies) which means that the points accumulate without costing you a fortune. The benefits are great value as well.

COFFEE SHOPS

COSTA COFFEE CLUB

CARD OR APP: Both

POINTS PS1 equals 5 points (collect in stores as well as in Costa Express machines).

Value: 5 points = 5p. To get an PS1 you did have invest PS20.

PROFITS You can purchase your coffee ahead of time by using the app. You might earn bonus points when you purchase food or drink.

VERDICT:

Points will only be active for 12 months, and you need to spend on average PS60 before you can get enough points to redeem the free drink, however If you are a regular customer , it is a good idea for you to install the application and use your credit debit card.

STARBUCKS

CARD OR APP: App

POINTS: If you does not get points from Starbucks It is stars. PS1 = 3 stars.

Value: For a free drink, you will need to have 150 stars.

BENEFITS: When you reach the 450-star mark, you are gold members and enjoy additional shots of milk alternatives, expresso and more at no cost. Gold members also receive complimentary drinks for their birthday.

VERDICT:

It is not the most extravagant scheme, as you must to spend at minimum PS50 to receive the free drink. There are better loyalty programs that are available, but If Starbucks is your favorite coffee spot of choice, there is absolutely nothing at stake by earning stars.

CAFF NERO

Card OR an app The app or CARD: Both (you are able to transfer stamps on your credit card onto the app on the spot).

Points You will receive an inscription every when you make a purchase (made by the barista).

VALUE: 9 stamps = a free drink.

Benefits: Receive an additional stamp if you are using cups that are reusable. You can also make money payments to the app so you can buy your coffee even if lost your purse or bag.

VERDICT

The best coffee shop loyalty programs It is simple to follow and you will need to purchase 9 drinks (to earn 9 points) before you can get the freebie.

There are a myriad of loyalty cards, schemes, and apps available today. They are mostly absolutely free and do not cost any money to utilize. But, they are loyalty schemes that give you a reward by being loyal. To maximize the benefits of each one select one or two of them for all of your needs or shopping habits. Then, keep them in mind. You are more likely to reap the most benefit from this method. If you do a lot of shopping and utilize all loyalty cards you can get to you, you will still be able to earn points and rewards . It takes a little longer.

What are the things to watch out for? To make the most of your credit card Keep your eyes on the website or application and check out when bonuses are on offer. There is nothing more annoying than buying a large purchase only to realize you could have saved cash when you did utilized your card or added an offer.