Supermarket apps: saving or expensive shock through impulse purchases?

Supermarket apps: saving or expensive shock through impulse purchases?

supermarket, discounter and drugstores are increasingly relying on digital customer loyalty through apps. These applications offer functions such as digital shopping lists, discounts, coupons and even online brochures. But while the use of these apps is popular, the question arises: Save customers really money or do they spend more in the end? According to Radio Köln there are clear indications that the savings potential often remains modest.

The e-commerce expert Markus Montz of «c’t» expresses concerns: The actual advantages of discounts and coupons are often less than one percent of the total purchase value. However, the use of these apps can significantly influence shopping experience, since impulsive buying is strongly promoted. In the end, many customers spend more than they originally planned. A lack of shopping discipline further exacerbates the problem.

The popularity of apps

The user behavior shows that about 82 % of consumers in Germany use supermarket apps to benefit from discounts. But in many cases the reason for use is not just saving; The ZDF shows that many buyers are also interested in comfortable and modern shopping experience. In order to be able to use all functions, users have to register and specify their preferred market.

While the apps are often free and offer many useful features, such as recipes and exclusive offers, they reach their limits. The apps collect data about the buying behavior of the users in order to create personalized offers. This data collection causes excitement among consumers who should consider their data protection regulations. In this way, the apps can access personal data such as the location and camera if the settings are not adjusted correctly.

The dark side of the bargains

Despite all the advantages, the user should also be critical. The savings offers offered by the apps are not always a real saving. According to [Supermarket Inside] (https://www.supermarkt-inside.de/kundenbindungsprogramm-im-leh-machen- paid, many users find the discounts tempting, but the question remains: How much money is really saved? It is recommended to adhere to the shopping list and compare offers in order to actually use the savings potential.

A positive development in the use of loyalty programs, however, shows that 55 % of consumers prefer food dealers who offer such programs. These apps not only increase the buying frequencies, but also increase the shopping baskets and customer loyalty. According to a study, 43 % of Loyalty app users use the programs very intensively, whereby offers and discounts are the main motivation.

If you buy cleverly and use the right app, it can be possible to keep the budget in check. But be careful: the desire to always take advantage of the latest offers can quickly become money. The balance between bargain hunt and responsible budget design remains crucial for everyone who goes to the supermarket. A good hand is in demand!