Booker is backing the trial of a Tesco Clubcard-like loyalty scheme in Premier, Londis and Budgens stores, which has helped increase footfall in participating sites.

The 12-week trial, which began on 22 May, is being undertaken in 20 sites. Participating retailers said customers who sign up receive physical cards for the scheme.

The wholesaler is working with EPoS firm ShopMate for the pilot that includes 40 to 50 eligible household and grocery items, with more to be added. Discounts include Hovis for 59p and an eight-pack of Fruit Shoot for £1.75, while loyalty members receive 1p cash reward for every £1 spent. Retailers participating in the scheme can also accumulate points for a chosen charity, which Booker will convert into a cash donation at the end of the 12 week trial.

Tobacco, alcohol and vapes are excluded. Booker is covering the cost of all the discounts for the retailers.

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Sam Wilson, of Barry’s Premier in Leeds, told Better Retailing 200 customers had signed up to the scheme within days of launching. He added: “Demand has been fantastic and we’ve asked for more cards. We’ve definitely seen an uptick in the frequency of visits. We’re the only store in the area participating.

“The store is based on a council estate, so the items on offer suit our demographic. We had been speaking to Premier for a few months about the launch of a loyalty scheme.”

Jaz Ali, of Jaz’s Premier in Grangemouth, Falkirk, added: “It’s a really good initiative backed by ShopMate and Booker. We had 500 sign ups within the first few days of launch and customers are visiting more.

“It helps us offer a point of difference as there are no other stores in the area with this loyalty scheme. I think we were chosen to participate in the trial as we’re a Premier concept store and we’ve won multiple awards.”

Colm Johnson, Booker Retail managing director, said: “Booker recognises driving footfall and cash profit for the customers which is why we are trialling this great loyalty scheme. The feedback currently has been fantastic, and we look forward to seeing how it performs within the full 12 weeks.”

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