How loyal are you?

I’ve just been having a clear out in my purse. Old receipts, business cards looking a little dog eared, Tesco schools vouchers. And I have realised how many cards I actually carry around, day in day out.

As well as the standard personal debit card, personal credit card, company credit card and well-known High Street shop store card, I have amassed 2 membership cards – National Trust and Library – plus 10 loyalty cards.

But the thing is – I do use them. I have Tesco’s for my weekly shop. The Co-op for a top up as it is only in the next village. Then I have Nectar, Boots, Matalan, Body Shop, Ikea Family, Horsattak (Equine superstore!!), Wyevale Gardening Club and finally my Subway card.

Working in this industry, it’s perhaps surprising that only the latter two are ‘eating out’ related. My local Wyevale in Bicester is fantastic for special offers, not just on pots and plants, but in the Café there. They serve freshly prepared food in a lovely environment, and many people I know go there just for the food and drink, to meet friends, have a quick bite – although it is of course likely they will get tempted elsewhere within the centre to make a little purchase or two. Subway – made in front of you, I have to say I always have the same (Tuna on Italian herb and cheese) – but it’s filling, good value and the kids love it too. Great for something quick on the move. And the temptation of securing points towards a free sub of course.

I’ve just realised after delving further I also have the obligatory Caffe Nero card (which needs a stamp on it when you buy a tea or coffee) and a McDonald’s card, where you collect a sticker off your tea or coffee cup. Buy 10 for a freebie at Nero, but 6 for a freebie at McDonald’s.

So – are other eateries missing out, or do I just not go to the right places, living in rural Bucks as I do? Have I enough room in my purse for anything else? Is loyalty actually important? I think it is – for me it’s almost psychological. I even buy my diesel at Tesco so I can get Clubcard points. I go to Nero if there is a choice facing me when I need a caffeine fix.

I would love to know how many loyalty cards people carry, and where I fit on the loyalty scale. Tweet @Elliott_MPR and let me know!

Jo Lynch

Posted by Emily in General, Marketing

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