Tesco Reviews Clubcard Rules to Include Under-18s
Tesco, the United Kingdom's largest supermarket chain, has confirmed it is actively reviewing the rules of its Clubcard loyalty scheme with the intention of making it available to customers under the age of 18 this year. This potential change comes after mounting pressure from consumers and advocacy groups who argue that the current policy is discriminatory and excludes younger shoppers from significant savings.
Current Policy and Customer Frustration
At present, Tesco's Clubcard scheme restricts access to individuals aged 18 and over, meaning teenagers, students, and young workers are unable to benefit from discounted offers such as the £3.85 meal deal. Instead, they must pay the full price of £4.25, a disparity that has sparked considerable frustration among parents and younger customers on social media platforms.
One mother expressed her concerns on Facebook, 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." This sentiment highlights the broader issue of young people being denied access to essential savings during a time of economic strain.
Significant Savings at Stake
According to recent research from Which?, the consumer advocacy group, Tesco customers who do not use a Clubcard discount pay approximately £52 more on a large trolley shop compared to those who do. Reena Sewraz, Which? Retail Editor, emphasised the importance of this access, saying, "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."
Sewraz added, "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 Supermarket Industry Context
Tesco is not alone in enforcing age restrictions on loyalty programmes. Other major UK supermarkets, including Morrisons, Lidl, Asda, and Sainsbury's, have similar rules in place. In July 2025, Morrisons faced criticism after raising the minimum age to join its More loyalty scheme from 16 to 18, reflecting a broader industry trend that has drawn scrutiny from campaigners.
A Tesco spokesperson stated, "We are actively reviewing Tesco Clubcard with the intention of making Clubcard available to under-18s this year." The spokesperson also noted that customers without a Clubcard can still find value through Tesco's Aldi Price Match and Everyday Low Prices initiatives, but acknowledged the need for greater inclusivity.
Implications and Next Steps
If implemented, this change would mark a significant shift in Tesco's approach to customer loyalty, potentially setting a precedent for other retailers to follow. The move is seen as a response to growing demands for fairness and accessibility in retail, particularly as younger consumers face rising living costs.
As the review progresses, stakeholders will be watching closely to see how quickly Tesco can roll out the updated policy and whether it will lead to broader reforms across the supermarket sector. For now, the announcement offers hope to many young shoppers and their families who have long felt excluded from essential discounts.
