Tesco is gearing up to scrap a hugely popular service which lets customers pay through its supermarket app while shopping in stores. The retail giant has informed shoppers that the ‘Pay In-Store’ option will be removed in nine days’ time – on March 7.
Those who currently use the app can tap on “Pay In-Store” to both pay for their purchases and collect Clubcard points by scanning a single code. This convenience is soon to be discontinued, with Tesco emailing customers about the decision as it starts “phasing out” the feature, meaning two separate steps will be required once again.
The email outlined: “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.”
Adding clarity for future store visits, Tesco stated, “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 shoppers have vented their frustrations on social media following the supermarket’s decision to remove a popular payment feature that many deemed a time-saving tool. Some expressed inconvenience at no longer being able to eschew their cards while shopping, reports the Mirror.
A disgruntled Reddit user remarked, “How is it more convenient to turn what was one step, into two.” Another regular user of the service commented, “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 exclaimed, “I literally use this for every purchase, whyyyyyyyyy.” [sic] A fourth detailed how they utilise the app for morning transactions at work to avoid carrying a wallet. One customer found it “handy” when fuelling up their car.
While some wonder if Tesco aims to minimise app processing, Tesco has clarified their stance. A spokesperson from Tesco explained, “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.”