Loyalty programs are supposed to reward you for shopping. But in 2025, some of the biggest grocery store loyalty programs changed the rules without much warning. If you count on these programs to save money, you might be missing out on points, discounts, or perks you used to get. These changes can affect your budget, your shopping habits, and even your trust in your favorite stores. It’s important to know what’s different so you can adjust and keep getting the best value. Here’s what you need to know about six major loyalty programs that quietly changed this year.
1. Kroger Plus Card: Points Expire Faster
Kroger’s Plus Card has always been a favorite for earning fuel points and digital coupons. But in 2025, Kroger shortened the time you have to use your points. Now, points expire at the end of the month after you earn them, instead of rolling over for several months. This means if you don’t use your points quickly, you lose them. Many shoppers didn’t notice this change until their points disappeared. If you rely on fuel savings, check your account more often and plan your gas fill-ups before the end of each month. This new rule makes it harder to save up for a big discount, so you need to act fast.
2. Safeway Just for U: Personalized Deals Are Less Personal
Safeway’s Just for U program used to offer deals based on your shopping history. In 2025, the company changed its algorithm. Now, the deals are more generic and less tailored to your actual purchases. You might see offers for products you never buy, while your favorite items are missing from the list. This shift can make it harder to find real savings. To keep getting the best deals, you’ll need to check the app more often and clip offers manually. Some shoppers have started using third-party coupon sites to fill the gap.
3. Walmart Rewards: Fewer Bonus Events
Walmart Rewards rolled out with a lot of excitement, promising extra points during special events. In 2025, Walmart quietly cut back on these bonus events. There are fewer double-points days and fewer frequent “spend $50, get $10” offers. This means you’ll earn rewards more slowly, and it takes longer to cash out for gift cards or discounts. If you count on these events to boost your savings, you’ll need to adjust your expectations. Watch for notifications in the app, but don’t expect as many surprise bonuses as last year. This change makes it even more important to compare prices and not rely on rewards alone.
4. Target Circle: Lower Cash Back on Groceries
Target Circle has been popular for its easy-to-use app and regular discounts. In 2025, Target reduced the cash back rate on grocery purchases from 1% to 0.5%. This might not sound like much, but over time, it adds up. If you spend $100 a week on groceries, you’ll now get 50 cents back instead of a dollar. Some shoppers didn’t notice the change until their rewards balance grew more slowly. To make up for this, look for extra Circle offers on specific products, and stack them with manufacturer coupons when possible.
5. Albertsons for U: Higher Minimum for Free Items
Albertsons for U has always offered free items after a certain number of purchases. In 2025, the minimum spend required to unlock these freebies went up. Instead of getting a free item after spending $100, you now have to spend $150. This change means you’ll need to shop more often or spend more per trip to get the same rewards. If you’re a budget shopper, this can be frustrating. To maximize your benefits, consider combining trips or shopping during sales to reach the new threshold without overspending. Keep an eye on your progress in the app so you don’t miss out.
6. Publix Club: Fewer BOGO Offers
Publix is known for its Buy One Get One (BOGO) deals, especially for loyalty members. In 2025, Publix reduced the number of BOGO offers available through its Club program. Some items that were always BOGO are now just 10% off, and others are only available to select members. This makes it harder to plan your shopping around these deals. If you rely on BOGO offers to stock up, you’ll need to check the weekly ad more carefully and be flexible with your shopping list. Some shoppers have started using price comparison apps to find better deals elsewhere.
Staying Ahead of Loyalty Program Changes
Loyalty programs are supposed to help you save, but when the rules change, you need to change your strategy too. The best way to stay ahead is to read the fine print, check your app or account regularly, and don’t assume the perks are the same as last year. If you notice your rewards shrinking or your favorite deals disappearing, it’s not just you. Stores are making changes to protect their bottom line, and it’s up to you to adapt. Try combining loyalty programs with manufacturer coupons, cash back apps, or even switching stores if the savings aren’t worth it anymore. Staying informed is the best way to keep your grocery budget in check.
Have you noticed changes in your favorite store’s loyalty program this year? Share your experience in the comments.
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The post 6 Store Loyalty Programs That Were Secretly Changed in 2025 appeared first on Grocery Coupon Guide.
