Britain’s largest supermarket, Tesco, confirms it is reviewing its loyalty scheme rules to extend Clubcard benefits to customers under 18. This change aims to let teenagers access discounted meal deals, currently priced at £3.85 for Clubcard holders but £4.25 for younger shoppers without access.
Customer Backlash Over Age Restrictions
Parents have voiced strong frustration online after teens were denied Clubcard discounts on basic items like sandwiches. One mother shared on social media: “I think it’s absolutely disgusting. She went in to buy her sandwich… and they wouldn’t allow her to use it. It’s a Clubcard, not alcohol. The world’s gone crazy.”
Campaigners label the policy discriminatory, especially amid rising living costs. Recent analysis from Which? reveals non-Clubcard users pay about £52 more on a large grocery shop compared to those with the loyalty card.
Tesco’s Response and Timeline
A Tesco spokesperson states: “We are actively reviewing Tesco Clubcard with the intention of making Clubcard available to under-18s this year.” The retailer emphasizes value for all shoppers through its Aldi Price Match and Everyday Low Prices programs.
Reena Sewraz, Which? Retail Editor, welcomes the move: “Which? research shows the savings from Tesco Clubcard can be really significant, which is why access matters so much for shoppers trying to make ends meet. We’ve been putting pressure on Tesco for years over its unfair policy of excluding young people, many of whom are struggling with the cost of living. We’re glad Tesco has listened – this is a big step in the right direction provided it moves quickly to fully implement these changes.”
Broader Industry Trends
Tesco faces similar age barriers at competitors. Morrisons raised its More scheme age limit from 16 to 18 in July 2025, drawing criticism. Lidl, Asda, and Sainsbury’s also restrict loyalty programs to those 18 and older.
