Which supermarket gives a discount to the over 60s? Your Comprehensive Guide to Senior Savings

According to the National Council on Aging, many retailers, including grocery stores, offer senior discounts to help ease the financial burden on older adults. For shoppers wondering which supermarket gives a discount to the over 60s, the answer depends heavily on your location and the specific store's policies, as these deals are not universal and can change frequently.

Quick Summary

Several supermarkets globally provide senior discounts, but eligibility, discount amounts, and offer days vary by retailer and country. UK shoppers can get savings at Iceland, while US residents might find deals at Harris Teeter, Fred Meyer, and Albertsons. Eligibility often requires a loyalty card or proof of age, and promotions may only be available on certain days.

Key Points

• Iceland Offers Weekly UK Discount: Over 60s with an Iceland Bonus Card receive 10% off their shopping every Tuesday, with no minimum spend.

• US Discounts Vary by Store and Day: In the USA, discounts are less standardized, with stores like Harris Teeter (60+ on Thursdays) and Fred Meyer (55+ on the first Tuesday) offering specific savings.

• Canadian Market Savings: M&M Food Market gives 10% off to shoppers 60+ on Tuesdays, while Bulk Barn offers 15% off to those 65+ on Wednesdays.

• Ask at the Checkout: It's crucial to ask a cashier about senior discounts, as many stores do not advertise them prominently, and policies can change or vary by location.

• Prepare Required Documents: To claim discounts, seniors must often provide a valid photo ID or a store-specific loyalty card, so have these ready when you shop.

• Regional Differences Apply: Discounts can be regional, as seen with Midcounties Co-operative in the UK and variations among US supermarket locations, making local research essential.

• Australia Relies on State-Issued Cards: In Australia, discounts for seniors often depend on a state-issued Seniors Card and can include deals at Woolworths and IGA.

Supermarket Senior Discounts in the UK

Several UK retailers offer discounts for shoppers over 60, often requiring a loyalty card and proof of age.

Iceland and The Food Warehouse

Iceland and its sister store, The Food Warehouse, provide a 10% discount for shoppers aged 60 and over every Tuesday. A valid Iceland Bonus Card and proof of age are required. There is no minimum spend.

Midcounties Co-operative

Midcounties Co-operative offers a regional 'Diamond Day' discount of 10% for members aged 60 and over on Tuesdays in selected food stores. Exclusions apply, including cigarettes and gift cards.

Supermarket Senior Discounts in the USA

Senior discounts are available at some US grocery stores, though offers can vary by location and are subject to change. Always check with your local store.

Examples of US Senior Discounts

• Harris Teeter: Offers a 5% discount every Thursday for those 60+ with a VIC card.
• Fred Meyer: Provides 10% off select items on the first Tuesday of each month for shoppers 55+.
• Albertsons: Some locations give a 10% discount to those 55+ on the first Wednesday of the month. Confirm with your local store.
• Hy-Vee: Some stores offer a 5% discount to shoppers 55+ on Thursdays.
• Weis Markets: Gives a 10% discount on participating Weis-branded items every Tuesday for customers 60+.

International Senior Discounts

Senior discounts are also available in other countries.

Australia

• Woolworths: Offers can vary by state for Seniors Card holders, potentially including discounts on shopping or eGift cards.
• IGA: Participating stores in some states may offer a 5% discount on a designated Seniors Discount Day.

Canada

• M&M Food Market: Provides a 10% discount every Tuesday for customers 60+, in-store and online.
• Bulk Barn: Offers a 15% discount every Wednesday for shoppers 65 and over.
• Giant Tiger: Provides 10% off for those 60+ on the first Monday of the month.

Comparison of Senior Supermarket Discounts

Comparing discounts requires looking at age, discount amount, frequency, and eligibility.

Supermarket/Retailer	Country	Age Requirement	Discount Amount	Day of Offer	Membership Required?	Notes
Iceland	UK	60+	10%	Every Tuesday	Yes (Bonus Card)	Also applies at The Food Warehouse. No minimum spend.
Midcounties Co-op	UK	60+	10%	Every Tuesday	Yes (Membership)	Only in selected stores. Excludes alcohol in Wales.
Harris Teeter	USA	60+	5%	Every Thursday	Yes (VIC card)	Excludes fuel, pharmacy, tickets, and gift cards.
Fred Meyer	USA	55+	10%	First Tuesday of the month	No	Applies to select items, including private brands.
Bulk Barn	Canada	65+	15%	Every Wednesday	No	Requires valid ID.
M&M Food Market	Canada	60+	10%	Every Tuesday	No	Available in-store and online.
Weis Markets	USA	60+	10%	Every Tuesday	Yes (Weis Rewards Card)	Applies to participating Weis-branded products.
Woolworths	Australia	Seniors Card holder	5%+ (varies)	Varies	Yes (State Seniors Card)	Can apply to eGift cards or delivery services.

How to Maximize Your Senior Discounts

To make the most of senior discounts, plan your shopping trips around discount days. Always ask if a senior discount is available at the checkout, as policies can vary or change. Have proof of age and any required loyalty cards ready. Check if discounts can be combined with other offers, such as coupons. Joining senior membership organizations like AARP can also provide access to a broader range of discounts beyond groceries.

Conclusion

While not every supermarket offers a discount to the over 60s, numerous stores globally provide valuable savings. These discounts vary significantly by location and store policy. Notable options include Iceland in the UK (10% off Tuesdays) and US stores like Harris Teeter and Fred Meyer (with specific senior discount days). Seniors can reduce grocery costs by researching local offers, asking at the checkout, and having necessary identification and loyalty cards ready.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which UK supermarkets offer a discount to the over 60s?

The UK supermarket chain Iceland and its sister store, The Food Warehouse, offer a 10% discount to shoppers aged 60 and over every Tuesday. Some regional Midcounties Co-operative stores also provide a 10% 'Diamond Day' discount for members over 60 on Tuesdays.

Do UK supermarkets like Tesco and Sainsbury's offer senior discounts?

No, major UK supermarkets like Tesco and Sainsbury's do not currently offer a specific, regular senior discount. Their savings programs, like the Tesco Clubcard, are open to all customers regardless of age.

What is the senior discount at Harris Teeter in the USA?

In the USA, Harris Teeter offers a 5% discount every Thursday for shoppers aged 60 and over who use a VIC card. The discount does not apply to purchases of fuel, pharmacy items, tickets, or gift cards.

Is there a grocery discount for seniors in Canada?

Yes, several Canadian retailers offer senior discounts. For example, M&M Food Market provides 10% off for shoppers 60+ on Tuesdays, and Bulk Barn offers a 15% discount for those 65+ on Wednesdays.

How can I find out if my local supermarket offers a senior discount?

To find out if your local supermarket offers a senior discount, it is best to ask at the customer service desk or at the checkout. Many stores do not publicly advertise these deals, or they can vary by location.

Do I need proof of age to get a senior discount at the supermarket?

Yes, most supermarkets require proof of age to grant a senior discount. This can be a government-issued photo ID like a driver's license, a senior bus pass, or a senior's card from a relevant organization.

Are senior supermarket discounts available every day?

Most senior discounts are not available every day. They are typically offered on specific days of the week, such as a 'Senior Day' or 'Diamond Day,' to incentivize shopping during slower periods.