It seems every drugstore now wants you to sign up for its reward card. It promises you discounts, and sometimes cash back in the future.
But a new survey finds that some may be better than others.
Walgreens vs CVS vs Rite Aid
Walgreens, CVS,and Rite Aid are all pushing free loyalty programs. They reward you with discounts, and the store with repeat business.
But the websiteCheapism.comsays the programs are not identical. According to Cheapism:
--Rite Aid is best for big spenders, because you get a 10% discount once you spend a certain amount. The others don't offer as much of a discount. However, you have to buy a lot to reach that level.
In addition, as of May 2015, Rite Aid now participates in the Plenti Rewards program, with Macy's, AT&T, and other retailers.If you shop those other businesses, this may be the best pharmacy reward program for you.
CLICK HERE for my report on thepros and cons of Plenti.
--Walgreens program has the most rewards for seniors, with added discounts for AARP members that the other programs don't have.
--CVS's program offers the biggest discount on beauty products like makeup and facial creams. If you buy a lot of beauty items in drugstores, this may be the card for you.
But Beware....
But from the doesn't that stink file, how you will pay a lot more if you decide not to join the stores loyalty programs.
If you don't want to join for privacy or other reasons, you often can't get the sale price on items, unless another shopper loans you a card.
You might say "doesn't that stink?"
If you're concerned about privacy, you don't have to give your home address.
But remember, if you use their pharmacy for prescription drugs, they already have it.
The Bottom Line
Of course, the pharmacy that works best for you is usually the one closest to you.
But if you have a choice of drugstores, you may want to compare programs, so you don't waste your money.
--------------------------
Don't Waste Your Money is a registered trademark of the EW Scripps Co.
"Like" John Matarese on Facebook
