Tesco is set to axe the popular service, which allows shoppers to pay through its supermarket app in stores.
The supermarket chain will be removing the option for customers next month from March 7. Currently, customers buying items in Tesco stores can open the app and click on “Pay In-Store”. This feature allowed them to pay and collect Clubcard points in one go by scanning a code.
The supermarket chain confirmed the news in an email to customers and is now in the process of “phasing out” the feature and the two steps will soon need to be done separately. In the email, Tesco said: “To ensure we’re able to keep bringing out the best value and convenience, we’ve taken the decision to remove the pay in-store feature, formally known as Tesco Pay+, from the Tesco app. Between now and March 7, the pay in-store feature will be phased out and any linked card details will be removed, unless you’re using them for GetGo, Whoosh, or home delivery shopping.
“So next time you’re in-store, you’ll need to pay separately after scanning your Clubcard. You can still earn points and access Clubcard Prices by simply scanning your Clubcard or app at the till. Or you can add your Clubcard to your Apple or Google Wallets.”
Tesco customers have taken to social media to complain about the move as many found the feature a time-saver. Others noted that they used it to avoid carrying their cards with them. One person on Reddit said the move was “so annoying” noting that they could not see how it was going to help with value. They said: “How is it more convenient to turn what was one step, into two.”
Another added: “Use it daily… It’s pretty convenient for me. There is no need to scan Clubcard. Just pay with the app; it’s quite a strange move from Tesco.”And a third shared: “I literally use this for every purchase, whyyyyyyyyy.” A fourth added that they use it to buy their breakfast at work instead of having to take their wallet. Another said it was “handy” to use when filling up at the petrol station.
Some speculated that Tesco is trying to reduce the amount of processing done by the app, although Tesco noted that it was routine as they regularly reviewed the payment options for its customers. A Tesco spokesperson said: “We regularly review the payment options available to our customers. It’s still quick easy to earn points on your shopping and fuel and enjoy Clubcard Prices offers by tapping your Clubcard in-store, scanning it via the Tesco App, or by adding it to your Apple or Google wallet.”
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