Copyright ok
Waitrose has expanded its My Waitrose loyalty programme with the nationwide launch of 'Little Treats' - with rewards beginningwhen people get past spending of £50. The new member benefit rewards customers who register for My Waitrose online with complimentary items or discounts on their shopping each month. The expansion follows a two-month trial in 74 stores , which Waitrose said received "an overwhelmingly positive response". The programme allows members to collect up to three "Little Treats" monthly after reaching spending levels of £50, £100, and £250. Each voucher is automatically added to customers' online accounts or app, and refreshes at the beginning of every month. The supermarket said the introduction represents its largest giveaway since bringing back complimentary coffee earlier this year. Throughout the trial period, rewards featured a complimentary bunch of Waitrose Foundation Pastel Roses, a No.1 pizza, and vouchers valued at up to £5. The introduction of Little Treats increases the total My Waitrose benefits to ten, complementing current offers including tailored discounts, service counter price reductions, and a free monthly edition of Waitrose Food magazine. Waitrose head of loyalty Alex Lovell described the introduction as "a massive moment in strengthening My Waitrose as a club for food lovers", noting that it underlines the retailer's commitment to rewarding frequent shoppers. "It's a way for us to say thank you to the growing number of loyal Waitrose customers," said Lovell. "Loyalty has been a big focus for Waitrose in 2025, and we hope that each time a shopper claims th eir 'Little Treat', free Waitrose Food Magazine or personalised offer, it acts as a reminder of just how much we value them." In the previous month, fashion retailer Matalan announced its plans to revamp its loyalty programme and app as part of its business transformation. Iceland Foods also gave its Bonus Card membership initiative a new look in August, marking a renewed focus on customer loyalty. Meanwhile bosses of the UK’s biggest supermarkets are urging the Chancellor to exempt shops from a new business rates surtax, warning that shoppers will bear the brunt of higher costs. A letter, organised by industry group the British Retail Consortium (BRC) and addressed to Rachel Reeves, argues that limiting the tax burden on grocers would help tackle food inflation. It has been signed by UK executives and directors at Tesco, Sainsbury’s, Aldi, Asda, Iceland, Lidl, Marks & Spencer, Morrisons and Waitrose . The BRC said it is concerned that large shops could see their business rates rise if they are included in the Government’s new surtax for properties with a rateable value over £500,000. This is expected to cover discounts for smaller high-street firms, which will be subject to reduced business rates under the Government’s plans. The plans are set to be confirmed in next month’s autumn Budget statement and would come into effect from next April.
