“Can we interest you in our store card?” “Would you like to sign up for our loyalty program today?” “Do you shop here often?” “Have you heard about our points program for loyal customers?” These are all lines that you hear on a regular basis if you shop in department stores, grocery stores, and even smaller retail shops. But are all of these programs worth it? Do you really want a wallet full of cards? Our research is in and the team here at iweeklyads.com would like to invite you to check out our brand new infographic on the very best and worst loyalty programs!
The reality is, not all loyalty rewards programs actually add value. Some programs only exist to draw you in and tempt you away from competitors that could actually offer you a better deal. The worst? It turns out that just about any supermarket chain will offer you nothing but bad deals. Kroger and Albertsons were among the worst culprits we found. While they offer discounts on their own prices by way of their cards, the prices you pay with their store cards tend to be around 28-71% higher than what you would pay without a card at a store like Target!
But that doesn’t mean that there aren’t some great store cards and loyalty programs out there that are well worth signing up for! These programs will actually offer you real value. Their discounts can save you hundreds of dollars if you shop regularly. Here are some of the best loyalty programs according to our research:
- Walgreens – Balance Rewards. This is a points program where you can get discounts on prescription drugs, specially marked purchases, and more. If you regularly need to pick up prescription medications, you are going to find few better deals.
- CVS – Extra Care. If you prefer to shop at CVS for your pharmaceutical needs, you will find another great loyalty program there. You can earn 2% cash back and get additional savings through in-store coupons.
- Best Buy – My Best Buy. 2% cash back adds up to a lot when you are purchasing expensive electronics. Just think how much money you could save purchasing a new computer or television set. Best Buy has some wonderful online offers too, including free shipping.
- Target – REDcard. Shopping at Target even without the card is cheap. Throw in 5% off and you are looking at some awesome deals. This is one of the best all-around discount programs we have ever seen. Target is your one-stop-shop for just about everything.
- Amazon – Rewards Visa Card from Chase. You get $30 just for signing up for this program, and cash back on purchases not just on Amazon.com, but also at partnering restaurants and gas stations.
To learn more about all of these fantastic loyalty programs, check out our infographic. The next time a cashier asks you if you would like to sign up for a store card, you will know exactly what to answer!