Membership-based grocery perks have long been a draw for shoppers looking to save money and access exclusive benefits. But as the grocery industry changes, many of these “member-only” grocery perks are disappearing in 2025. Retailers are tightening budgets, shifting priorities, and responding to new shopping habits. That means some of your favorite member perks may soon be gone. If you rely on these special deals, it’s time to prepare for the changes ahead. Here’s a look at 10 “member only” grocery perks that won’t be around much longer—and what that means for your wallet.
1. Free Grocery Delivery for Members
Free grocery delivery has become a beloved perk for many membership holders. Unfortunately, several major chains are phasing out unlimited free delivery. Rising fuel and labor costs have made the service harder to sustain. In 2025, expect to see delivery fees reintroduced or minimum order amounts increased, even for members. If this “member only” grocery perk is important to you, keep an eye on your favorite store’s policy updates.
2. Early Shopping Hours
Early shopping access has helped members beat the crowds and get first pick of fresh stock. However, with more shoppers opting for curbside pickup or online orders, stores are scaling back these special hours. By 2025, most retailers will open their doors to everyone at the same time, making this once-coveted “member only” grocery perk a thing of the past.
3. Exclusive Cash Back Offers
Cash back on grocery purchases has been a favorite reward for loyal members. But due to tighter margins and changing loyalty programs, these offers are slowly vanishing. Many stores are moving toward generic digital coupons or app-based savings instead. That means less personalized cash back and fewer “member only” grocery perks to sweeten your bill.
4. Members-Only Checkout Lanes
Dedicated checkout lanes for members sped up the shopping process and made customers feel valued. With more people using self-checkout and mobile pay, stores are repurposing these lanes. In 2025, expect most member-only lanes to disappear as grocers focus on efficiency and tech upgrades instead.
5. Free Rotisserie Chicken or Ready Meals
Some warehouse clubs and grocery chains have offered free rotisserie chicken or ready-to-eat meals as a reward for members hitting certain spending thresholds. But due to increased food costs and supply chain issues, these tasty perks are on the chopping block. If you loved grabbing a free meal as a member, you’ll need to find new ways to treat yourself.
6. Complimentary Product Samples
Sampling tables were a major draw for member shoppers, especially on weekends. However, concerns about food safety and the cost of staffing these stations have led to a sharp decline. By 2025, complimentary samples will be rare, even in stores known for this “member-only” grocery perk. Brands may shift to digital sample offers or coupons instead.
7. Double Coupon Days for Members
Doubling coupons was a standout benefit for many grocery memberships. As manufacturers and retailers focus on digital savings and loyalty apps, double coupon days are disappearing. This “member only” grocery perk is being phased out in favor of personalized digital discounts, which may not always provide the same value.
8. Free Grocery Bagging Services
Some stores have long offered free bagging by staff as a courtesy for members. With labor costs rising and more customers bringing reusable bags, this perk is fading out. In 2025, expect to see more self-service bagging and fewer staff dedicated to this once-standard “member only” grocery perk.
9. Exclusive Access to Limited-Edition Products
Getting first dibs on special releases or seasonal products was a big part of the membership appeal. As supply chains tighten and demand grows, many grocers are moving these items to wider releases or online exclusives. That means fewer chances for members to snag unique finds before anyone else.
10. Free Birthday Treats for Members
Many loyalty programs have offered a free birthday treat or small gift as a thank you to members. But with costs mounting and more members joining, these “member-only” grocery perks are being discontinued. Instead, expect digital coupons or modest discounts to replace the once-festive freebies.
How to Adapt as Member Perks Disappear
With so many “member-only” grocery perks disappearing in 2025, it’s important to rethink how you shop and save. Start by reviewing your current memberships and weighing the remaining benefits. If free delivery or exclusive discounts disappear, you may want to explore other savings strategies—like using digital coupons, shopping at discount grocers, or joining alternative loyalty programs.
Staying flexible and informed is key. While it’s disappointing to see perks disappear, new opportunities to save will emerge as the grocery landscape evolves.
Which “member only” grocery perk will you miss the most in 2025? Share your thoughts and tips in the comments below!
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