Tesco customers have been left infuriated after a popular Christmas savings scheme used by families across the country has been axed.
Savings stamps could be purchased at any point throughout the year and collected in a book to be spent at Christmas.
It allowed cash-strapped families a chance to save up a bundle of money throughout the year instead of a big blow in December.
However, the scheme was pulled by Tesco bosses back in the summer with stamps no longer being sold from Monday, October 16.
The decision has been met with anger by Tesco regulars who took to social media to take a stance.
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Posting on X, formerly Twitter, @RachelCrate203 posted: “Just went to my local Tescos and just found out that the stamp machine is no longer available.
“Absolutely gutted I’ve been saving stamps for years. Always came in handy for Christmas. I’ve got 2 full books and half a book. Will I still be able to use them?” (sic)
Responding to the frustrated customer, Tesco confirmed those holding stamps could still spend them in-store. However, the supermarket giant has set a date the scheme will finally end with shoppers under a tight deadline.
Tesco replied: “We’re very sorry but from Monday 16 October 2023 we’re no longer selling saving stamps. You can still spend your saving stamps until Sunday 31 December 2023 though, or you can exchange them for a Tesco gift card in any of our Superstores or Extra Stores.”
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Cutting the scheme was described as “madness” by one customer while others urged the retailer to change their mind.
@BangorAyeGaz added: “Tesco are doing away with Christmas saving stamps on 15th October. Real madness decision that one.”
@DawnR34823 posted: “Why are the Tesco saving stamps being stopped? The scheme has helped a lot of people who are on low income to save for sure especially for holidays/Christmas, I’ve spoken to quite a few people and they are not happy it’s being stopped.”
@BenUnderwood10 added: “Please rethink the cancellation of your saving stamps. I’m currently halfway through and I’m sure there are many others that use this as a lifeline at Xmas. I understand there may be forgeries but there must be a way to combat it .”
Tesco has replaced the old stickers with their new digital Clubcard Christmas Savers programme. The supermarket giant has claimed the scheme will “take the pressure off saving” for the big day.
The scheme works by withholding all of a customer’s quarterly vouchers until November when these will be paid out in a lump sum. Customers can also top-up their account voluntarily with with Tesco promising to chip in a little extra to keep the pot ticking.
Those who top up £25 cash will receive a £1.50 voucher but the benefits rise in instalments the more shoppers pay. Those who top up their accounts with £200 will receive a £12 voucher from the company completely free of charge.
Tesco explained; “We’ll look after the vouchers you collect when you shop through the year, then send them all in November – just in time for the big shop.
“We’ll continue sending statements through the year, too, so you can keep track of your savings.
“Plus, you can save even more by topping up your account with cash to get a bonus from us (up to a maximum of £12, top-up limit is £360). When you top up, you can rest assured your money is held in a trust.”
However, to access the new project, customers need to sign into their account and become a Clubcard Christmas Saver.
According to Tesco, this can be accessed through the ‘vouchers scheme’ page.
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