As customers begin stocking up on their Christmas food shopping, new analysis of UK supermarkets shows which supermarket has the best supermarket loyalty scheme.

Conducted by the retail experts at Wethrift, the study analysed which supermarkets deliver the best overall customer experience.

The team also looked at the retailer's loyalty schemes, and examined key factors such as the availability of features like in-store cafés, 24-hour stores, and “Scan & Shop” options, alongside accessibility measured by the number of locations.

As of 2024, 82 percent of UK adults are members of a supermarket loyalty program, with 85 percent stating that loyalty programs make them more likely to continue shopping with a brand.

Tesco Clubcard leads the way for supermarket loyalty schemes, with a weighted score of 7.9 out of 10.

Research has shown that Tesco Clubcard is the most recognised loyalty program in the UK, with 72 percent of British adults aware of it. The scheme has the best return on spend for its customers, as every 150 Clubcard points earned translates into £1.50 in Clubcard vouchers.

Clubcard points can also be redeemed for up to double or triple their value at Reward Partners such as restaurants, day trips, and travel services.

Some additional benefits include reduced Clubcard Prices in store and online, exclusive discounts, and early access to offers.

These are particularly beneficial for regular Tesco shoppers and families looking to maximise savings and reduce spending, and they appeal to those who want flexibility in how they use their rewards.

With a weighted score of 6.9 out of 10, Sainsbury’s Nectar scheme is the second-best supermarket loyalty program in the UK. While there isn’t a strict minimum spend for rewards, points are accumulated gradually, and their value is approximately 0.5p per point when redeemed.

Customers can also redeem points with partner retailers such as eBay or Argos, which is another great incentive for retaining customers. Some other additional benefits include personalised offers and bonus points through the Nectar app.

Asda Rewards and Co-op Membership both rank in third place with a joint weighted score of 6.5 out of 10.

Asda encourages its customers to complete missions and purchase star products in a bid to build their Cashpot. The Cashpot can then be converted into vouchers for money off at the supermarket. Other benefits include personalised offers and limited-time bonuses.

The Co-op Membership scheme gives customers exclusive access to lower prices, personalised offers, access to Co-Op Live events, and discounts across the Co-Op group.

The top 10 supermarket loyalty schemes in the UK:

1. Tesco Clubcard - 7.9

2. Sainsbury's Nectar - 6.9

3. Asda Rewards Co-Op Membership - 6.5

4. Waitrose & Partners - 6.4

5. Iceland Bonus Card - 5.9

6. Booths Card 5.7

7. Lidl Plus - 5.4

8. Ocado - 5.2

9. Morrisons More - 5.1

10. Aldi Rewards - 4.1