Britain’s largest supermarket chain, Tesco, is actively reviewing its Clubcard loyalty scheme rules to extend benefits to customers under 18 this year.
Current Restrictions Spark Backlash
Under existing policies, teenagers and young students cannot access Clubcard discounts, forcing them to pay full price for items like the £3.85 meal deal, which rises to £4.25 without the card. This has led to widespread frustration among parents on social media.
One parent shared her outrage online, stating: “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.”
Tesco’s Response and Plans
A Tesco spokesperson confirmed: “We are actively reviewing Tesco Clubcard with the intention of making Clubcard available to under-18s this year.”
The spokesperson also noted that non-Clubcard holders still enjoy competitive pricing through Aldi Price Match and Everyday Low Prices.
Significant Savings at Stake
Recent supermarket rankings from Which? reveal that shoppers skipping Clubcard discounts pay about £52 more on a large trolley shop. Reena Sewraz, Which? Retail Editor, emphasized: “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.”
Industry-Wide Age Limits
Tesco faces similar rules across competitors. Morrisons raised its More scheme age limit from 16 to 18 in July 2025, drawing criticism. Matching 18-plus requirements also apply at Lidl, Asda, and Sainsbury’s.
