Tesco has clarified the parking regulations outside its stores, warning that fines could be issued for those who don’t adhere to them. It comes after a customer contacted the supermarket regarding a blue badge parking sign they had noticed.
The sign, featuring a blue background and a disabled symbol, stated: “Blue Badge holders only. These bays are reserved for those with a Blue Badge.”
A blue badge is a parking permit you display in your vehicle when parking in a disabled space, indicating you have a condition that qualifies you to park there. The customer asked: “I’m wondering if this sign actually requires people to display their Blue Badge? So are their fines for non-display of a badge actually valid/legal?”
Tesco responded by outlining the rules, stating: “I can advise that it is the driver’s responsibility to ensure that their badge is both valid and clearly on display before leaving their vehicle parked in these spaces.” The supermarket sternly warned that “fines will be issued for not displaying this badge”.
Tesco has also come under fire recently for its revised parking policy, which now limits parking to 30 minutes between midnight and 6am at some stores. The move has sparked outrage among customers, who claim the time limit is insufficient for completing their shopping.
One disgruntled shopper expressed their frustration, stating: “I know to a lot of people this probably seems petty and not a big deal, but to anyone who either has kids or works hours and has to shop in the evening, or for anyone neurodivergent it’s absolutely not okay.” Another customer echoed this sentiment, explaining that the new policy would cause them difficulties when purchasing groceries.
They said: “I also can only do the shopping on an evening. Similarly, it’s two hours to myself once a week. This is a really inconsiderate thing to do.”
One disappointed customer said they are contemplating switching to a rival store, stating: “We used to spend £110 a week at Tesco for husband and I, costs £65 a week at Aldi. Fresher veg, fruit, salad and the British steaks are excellent. Vote with your feet people.”