Brits Could Be Sitting on Up to £1.2 Billion in Unused Supermarket Loyalty Points
New research indicates that Brits may be hoarding as much as £1.2 billion in unused supermarket loyalty points, highlighting a significant trend in value-driven consumer behavior. A survey of 2,000 adults found that 75 percent currently have cash available across an average of three supermarket loyalty schemes. Among these participants, shoppers have nearly £31 banked, ready to help stretch their spending further in an era of rising costs.
Reasons for Accumulating Points and Broader Savings Mindset
The reasons for storing up points vary widely among consumers. Approximately 45 percent plan to save them for bigger seasonal spends, such as holiday shopping or special occasions, while 32 percent aim to maximise the value of their points throughout the year by timing redemptions strategically. This cautious approach reflects a broader shift in financial habits, with almost two-thirds (64 percent) applying the same value-driven mindset beyond the supermarket aisle.
Key strategies include timing big purchases around the best deals (43 percent), cancelling subscriptions when not in use (32 percent), and rotating streaming services to avoid unnecessary fees (13 percent). Many Brits are even exploring other areas to save money, with 79 percent of bill payers expressing interest in using their energy more flexibly. Notably, customers who prepay for their energy show heightened interest, with 93 percent willing to shift their energy use to different times of the day if it could lead to savings.
Expert Insights on Energy Flexibility and Smart Tools
Victoria Bacon, director at Smart Energy GB, which commissioned the research, commented on this evolving consumer behavior. "People are becoming increasingly smart about how they make their money go further – whether that's building up supermarket loyalty points for a bigger shop, or timing purchases to get the best possible value," she said. "What we're seeing is that same value-focused mindset in other parts of everyday life too. For some people that includes their household energy, with more attention being paid not just to what things cost, but when gas and electricity are used."
According to data from OnePoll.com, 63 percent of respondents believe they have become savvier about how and when they spend their money compared to five years ago. This savvy extends to energy management, with 77 percent applying similar principles to household energy use. To help with energy costs, 60 percent of bill payers are switching off appliances they aren't using, demonstrating proactive steps toward efficiency.
Practical Steps for Household Savings and Future Outlook
Victoria added further insights into the tools available for managing energy use. "Many are exploring different types of flexibility in their household when it comes to their spending and energy use. Tools like smart meters can allow you to access tariffs and schemes which reward you for shifting your energy use to different times of day," she explained. "They also come with other everyday benefits, such as accurate bills based on actual usage – and those with smart prepay meters can top up their energy from home and keep track of remaining credit more easily."
The survey also revealed additional household savings efforts: 31 percent have tried to improve home insulation to prevent heat waste, and 24 percent have swapped out low-efficiency gadgets and appliances for more economical options. These actions underscore a comprehensive approach to reducing expenses and enhancing sustainability.
Victoria concluded by emphasizing the variety of tools available for modern consumers. "From supermarket rewards to flexible tariffs and schemes, there are more tools than ever that could help people manage how they spend and use their money," she said. "For some households, using energy more flexibly could help them make savings, but it's important to take the time to understand how these options work and whether they're the right fit for your home and lifestyle."
