Albertsons Market -- which has 192 stores in Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Florida, Louisiana, New Mexico, Texas, and Utah – got rid of their customer loyalty cards as of June 19.
According to information posted on its company website, Albertsons eliminated its blue “Preferred Card” that members used to redeem lower prices on items.
The following message was posted on the company website to customers:
“This week, we began notifying customers that our Preferred Card is no longer required at our stores to receive sales prices on items. We know you’ve had your card for years, and you’re used to having to use our card when you shop to get a great deal.
Once upon a time, a shopper card set customers aside. It meant that you were taking extra steps to save money, and we offered special items that were only available at special prices when you had the special card.
The card isn’t so special anymore. Everyone has one. So we want to take the special step of not requiring one anymore.
Our customers are the only reasons that our doors open every day. Because of you, we exist. It’s that simple. We feel it’s our job to give everyone a great shopping experience, and that includes offering great prices to everyone.
If your Preferred Card is attached to your Upromise/SavingStar account, that’s okay. You will still be able to have your card scanned when you purchase your groceries and your account activity will be appropriately reflected. If you currently use your Preferred Card to earn Fuel Rewards, you can still scan it when you shop. Fuel Rewards will continue. As always, if any changes are made to that program, you’ll be the first to know.
We invite you to share your thoughts with our Customer Service Center and thank you for your business.”
The Boise, ID-based Albertsons had been owned by Supervalu Inc., but Supervalu sold the chain as part of a $3.3 billion deal to Cerberus Capital Management in March. Supervalu sold all Albertsons, Acme, Jewel-Osco, Shaw’s, and Star Market stores to Cerberus as part of the deal.