According to family law firm Pannone, the equitable division of supermarket loyalty points is increasingly becoming a bone of contention in divorce proceedings, even delaying settlements in some cases. Obviously times are tough, but some simple guidelines will help prevent unnecessary acrimony.
• Agree to split all points equally in order to buy each other an ironic, mildly hurtful leaving present from Argos.
• While still married, redeem points regularly. Buying £10,000 worth of food – that's £200 a week for a year – would leave you with Nectar points with a value of about £100. If you're fighting over more than that, it's your own fault.
• At time of split, use any unredeemed points to buy booze and sad films. Divide according to taste.
* Until the dispute is formally settled, all newly accrued Clubcard points must be donated to the person behind you at the till.
* Redeem points at Amazon to purchase books. Fight over books instead.
• Exhaust remaining points getting a discount on a family ticket to Legoland. Soften the blow of divorce by explaining to children that Mummy and Daddy won't be living together any longer while waiting in the queue for the Wave Surfer.
• Before remarrying, consider signing a prenuptial loyalty card agreement, whereby you each agree to get a card of your own. Celebrate engagement with a £25 voucher for dinner at Bella Italia (not to be used in conjunction with any other offer).
