Woolworths Kensington, Whangarei in 2010. Photo / NZME
Woolworths Kensington, Whangarei in 2010. Photo / NZME
Countdown is promising a new customer loyalty programme which it says will provide “more value and a materially improved fresh offer” along with its announced $400 million rebranding and refurbishment.
The timing of the changes was described by Consumer NZ as “interesting”, as many others are questioning whyit is coming amid a cost of living crisis. The consumer watchdog also derided loyalty schemes in general.
An email to Onecard holders said: “For now, keep using your Onecard as usual.”
Currently, Countdown’s Onecard members are offered a 3 cents per litre discount for every $100 spent in one week or 6 cents per litre for $200 spent which are redeemable at BP and Gas outlets.
Consumer NZ’s spokeswoman said: “We have been vocal about our concerns that fundamental aspects of the supermarket sector are not working; we think it’s interesting that a rebrand is being prioritised right now.”
On the soon-to-be wound-up fuel discounts, Countdown’s Wolfenden said cardholders would be able to redeem rewards they have earned when the loyalty programme ends.
“Countdown’s partnership with AA Smartfuel and Countdown’s Onecard programme will conclude in early 2024. All of the current terms and conditions continue to apply until then,” Wolfended said.
AA Smartfuel director Ian Sutcliffe said the programme would end its run early in the first quarter of next year after partnering with the Australian-owned supermarket chain since 2016.
The history of Woolworths in New Zealand
● 1929: First Woolworths store opens in Wellington’s Cuba St, trading as a general merchandise store.
● 1958: First Foodtown owned by Progressive Enterprises store opens in Otahuhu, Auckland.
● 1981: Rattrays Wholesale Group establishes Countdown Supermarkets and opens its first store in Northlands, Christchurch.
● 1993: Countdown and Foodtown business come under Woolworths New Zealand ownership.
