Loyalty comes at a cost: Tesco shoppers unknowingly spending over £272 extra annually

Tesco customers relying on their Clubcard for savings may be in for a shock. New research has revealed that even with loyalty discounts, shoppers at Tesco are still spending significantly more on groceries compared to budget supermarkets.

According to the latest analysis from consumer watchdog Which?, Clubcard members paid an average of £205.31 for a basket of 100 popular grocery items in February. Shoppers without a Clubcard faced an even steeper bill at £212.54. However, the study found that Tesco’s discounted prices still did not match the cost-effectiveness of Aldi, the UK’s cheapest supermarket. The same basket of groceries at Aldi came to just £182.64, making it £22.67 cheaper each month.

Over the course of a year, this price difference accumulates to a staggering £272.04. This means that even Tesco Clubcard users are paying significantly more than they would if they shopped at Aldi. While Tesco promotes its loyalty scheme as a way for customers to make savings, the findings suggest that bargain-hunting shoppers might benefit more by switching supermarkets altogether.

The Clubcard scheme, which offers exclusive member discounts, has long been a key part of Tesco’s pricing strategy. However, the Which? study raises concerns about whether these so-called savings truly benefit customers. In many cases, Tesco’s prices remain noticeably higher than competitors, even after Clubcard discounts are applied.

Consumer experts are urging shoppers to compare prices carefully and not assume loyalty schemes always offer the best deal. “Many consumers believe their Clubcard guarantees the lowest prices, but this research proves otherwise. It’s crucial to look at overall spending habits and shop around to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money,” a spokesperson from Which? advised.

Tesco remains one of the UK’s largest supermarket chains, but budget retailers like Aldi and Lidl continue to dominate the affordability market. As the cost-of-living crisis persists, many families are re-evaluating their shopping habits to maximise savings.

With household budgets under strain, the extra £272 per year could be better spent elsewhere. While Tesco’s Clubcard does provide certain discounts, it appears that true savings may still lie outside its doors.