Are loyalty cards helping you save – or making you spend more?

Loyalty cards can feel like a win-win. You scan your card, get some money off or collect points, and walk away feeling smug that you’ve saved a bit of cash.

But here’s the thing most supermarkets and coffee shops don’t shout about… loyalty schemes aren’t just about rewarding you, they’re about shaping your shopping habits.

The psychology behind the points

Retailers know exactly how to tempt you back in. They might:

• offer special prices only for cardholders
• set ‘spending challenges’ – spend £X this week and get bonus points
• give you extra rewards on certain days to get you through the door

Before you know it, you’re adding extra bits to your basket or popping in for a “bonus points” coffee you hadn’t planned.

Best value vs biggest overspend traps

How to get the best from your card (without blowing your budget)

1. Only buy what you actually need – even if you’re close to a points goal.
2. Compare prices elsewhere – don’t assume loyalty prices are the cheapest.
3. Watch out for limited-time offers – they’re designed to make you spend sooner.
4. Track your real savings – if you’re spending more than you’re saving, it’s not worth it.

So, remember

Loyalty schemes can absolutely help you save money, but only if you’re in control. The moment you find yourself adding things to your basket just for the sake of points, it’s time to step back and ask if the reward is really worth it.

Use your card as a tool to save on the things you’d buy anyway, and you’ll keep more money in your pocket – where it belongs.