Let's See if Loyalty Apps are Worth Your Time for Savings
Comparison uncovered: Modest savings found when utilizing customer loyalty applications during shopping - Comparison Reveals Modest Savings for Users Through Loyalty Apps During Shopping
Wondering if those retail store loyalty apps, such as Rewe, Lidl, and Kaufland, can really help you keep some extra cash in your pocket? Well, it seems they might, but not by a landslide, according to a study by Smhaggle for the German Press Agency.
The researchers compared the reward programs of various retailers, with over 1.26 million receipts analyzed between January and March 2025. The crowd favorite? Kaufland, where customers could save an average of 2.29% of their food and drug spending in the first quarter. That means, you could save 2.29 euros for every 100 euros you spend!
But it's not all rosy with other chains, according to Smhaggle. dm comes in at 1.68%, Lidl Plus at 1.6%, Edeka at 1.59%, and Rossmann at 1.32%. Rewe Bonus and Penny trail behind with rates of 0.82% and 0.75%. PAYBACK, a multi-retailer program including Edeka, Netto, and dm, has a savings rate of 1.38% for consumers.
So, what's the secret to more savings? According to Smhaggle CEO Sven Reuter, it's all about smart shopping choices and regularly switching retailers. In fact, those who buy products on sale can save an average of 30%! With bonus programs, it's usually just 1-2%.
With most major retail chains offering loyalty apps for smartphone users, it's no surprise that these apps are being used extensively for discounts. Retailers promote their products and special offers within the apps, and registered users are offered exclusive benefits in return for their data.
However, the usage of such apps is not without controversy. A YouGov survey, commissioned by the German Press Agency, found that almost a quarter of people do not use these apps and don't plan to in the future. The most common reason? The transmission of personal data—a concern shared by 39% of respondents. Almost as many are troubled by the analysis of purchasing behavior (38%).
While the idea of only registered customers receiving discounts divides opinion, with 41% finding it good, 40% disagree.
The Big Picture
While loyalty apps can provide opportunities for savings, it's vital to consider their effectiveness relative to targeted purchases and sales. Loyalty apps offer personalized discounts and rewards, but their success depends highly on factors like app features, user engagement, and the integration of targeted purchases and sales.
Personalized offers, rewards programs, digital coupons, and cashless payments are some key features of loyalty apps. However, targeted purchases and sales can also be effective, offering immediate savings through specific product promotions or sales events.
Ultimately, the key to saving money is a combination of smart shopping choices, loyalty app usage when beneficial, and taking advantage of targeted sales and promotions. So, happy shopping, savvy shoppers!
Additional Insights
Loyalty apps can be incredibly valuable, offering personalized discounts, rewards programs, digital coupons, and cashless payment options. However, their success relies on factors like integration, personalization, and user engagement.
Targeted purchases and sales can also be effective, providing immediate savings through specific product promotions or sales events. When combining the advantages of loyalty apps and carefully planned purchases, shoppers can maximize their savings potential.
- In addition to using loyalty apps for personalized discounts, consider embracing targeted purchases and sales in areas such as home-and-garden and lifestyle, or avail deals-and-discounts during vocational training seminars, to ensure a robust approach to savings.
- To heighten your savings-focused lifestyle, incorporate smart shopping strategies, such as buying products on sale or during special discount seasons, along with fruitful engagement with loyalty apps, vocational training programs, and home-and-garden deals-and-discounts, for an all-rounded, money-saving community policy.
