Does loyalty pay off when it comes to store cards?

At the last count, I had some 17 supermarket and retailer loyalty scheme cards cluttering up various bags and wallets. I love them, but my main problem is I forget to bring them with me when I go shopping, so I miss out on the discounts!

- MARTYN JAMES

Loyalty schemes have traditionally been a good way to make your cash go further when you spend. Sadly, in recent years, retailers have slashed the number of points you can earn, or cut the value of those points. This may have left you feeling a little disenchanted at the disloyalty of the retailers.

But just as some shops take away, others give in return. Supermarket loyalty schemes are evolving in a way that means you can still save a packet if you know how to make the most out of them. Here’s my guide.

Two-tier pricing

Over the last two years, many of the big supermarkets have introduced a two-tier pricing system for lots of items they sell. You'll see two prices listed next to products. One is for loyalty card holders, one is for those who aren't. There can be some major differences in those prices, with some loyalty deals giving you up to half off.