I'm not going to carry one. Mr. Petrella, a truck driver, may find himself in the minority, as more and more grocery stores, pharmacies, discount houses and retailers introduce shopper cards that are designed to promote loyalty among customers by offering savings on goods that are purchased. CVS, Price Chopper, Shaw's, you name it. They're a pain, but you really have no choice but to get them. Representatives of companies that offer them said that the cards not only bring discounts, but are convenient to customers, saving them the time of cutting out coupons.
Some businesses allow their cards to be used at other establishments.
The Shaw's Rewards Card, for example, can be used at Papa Gino's, Friendly's restaurants and Honey Dew Donuts. CVS officials said the ExtraCare Card was tested in six markets before introduction. They said that 75 percent of those surveyed said they shopped more often at CVS because of the cards. Mailings are sent to customers who buy selected merchandise, such as baby care, senior or women's health products. It's unclear whether the cards will catch on or just become a marketing fad.