Invoking a new strategy of "card-free savings" in the competitive supermarket industry, Jewel-Osco is doing away with its loyalty card program, a bold move that runs counter to the trend among many retailers.
The company confirmed that it is ending its Preferred Customer Card program, which shoppers had used to access a lower price on many items. Signs advertising "preferred" prices are being removed from shelves and several stores have been collecting customer cards, enticing shoppers to turn them in for the chance to participate in a raffle, two store managers said.
In a letter to customers, Jewel said the My Rewards/Preferred Savings Card is no longer required to get the sale price. "We want your shopping trips to be simple, and we think Card Free Savings helps achieve that. … Great prices for everyone means great shopping experiences, and we're 100 percent focused on providing that at Jewel-Osco."
To read the rest of the story, please go to: Chicago Tribune
