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Consider the worth of loyalty schemes before paying a membership fee
28 Feb 2011

UK consumers should consider the worth of loyalty schemes before paying a membership fee, according to an expert.

Tara McAlister, writing for the Charlotte Observer website expressed her belief that Britons should weigh up the benefits of paid-for loyalty programmes.

She said: "Consumers should be more cautious with those loyalty programmes that require a membership fee, common among booksellers and sub-speciality retailers, such as those that sell outdoor equipment."

Ms McAlister added that it is important to consider how long would it take to recoup the membership fee and if this has to be renewed on an annual basis.

Furthermore, the true worth of the programme can be determined by a consumer's willingness to spend the annual membership fee over a year in-store.

Other issues that need to be considered include the ability to cancel a membership at any time and whether any other family members or friends can also benefit from the offers. 

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