Supermarket firm Tesco has defended the prices it charges for items to customers who do not have a Clubcard.
The retailer gives added benefits to anyone who has a loyalty card with them by slashing prices of items around the store. This can help save cash for shoppers on dozens of household goods.
However, the company has received backlash from shoppers recently over the price differences they offer from normal to Clubcard, BristolLive reports. Many have accused the scheme of being "crazy".
Read more: Tesco confirms major change to Clubcard points and vouchers system
One particular bone of contention came when customers spotted the supermarket selling an item for £16 if you had a Clubcard. Those without one would have to pay £40.
Despite this criticism, Tesco has defended how it works. They have said it is "easy and free" to get a Clubcard.
Speaking on Twitter, one shopper said it was "dreadful" that Tesco was charging £16 for an item with a Clubcard and £40 without it. @virtual_ambvxr said: "This is dreadful… if you can sell it at £16 then sell it at £16. The Clubcards are literally free of charge so what is the point?
"You don’t gain anything from Clubcards. £40 is absolutely ridiculous. Seeing these crazy prices more and more in Tesco, it really is shocking!"
Meanwhile an image also posted to Twitter by a shopper appears to show Tesco charging £2.90 for Nescafe Azera coffee with a Clubcard, and £6 without it. "Tesco said 'what cost of living crisis?'" @catekitchen posted. JJM_1994 replied: "Tesco Clubcards are probably skewing the real (much higher) inflation stats."
Meanwhile @andy88jones said: "Tesco has basically turned into a tech company; they are enforcing Clubcards now to get your shopping data. Crate of Bud Light £16 or £9 with a Clubcard. Sneaky sneaky."
A Tesco spokesperson replied: "Through Clubcard Prices, we’re giving more than 20 million customers access to thousands of exclusive deals on everything from everyday staples like fruit and veg to treats like prosecco and ice-cream.
"It’s easy and free to sign up, and customers can register on the Tesco Grocery & Clubcard app, website or in store to start saving straight away."
