Pret A Mangar has launched a new system for its Club Pret members, in what appears to be a crackdown on subscribers sharing their benefits with others.
Those who pay for the £30 membership will have to log in through Pret’s app every time they want to claim a free coffee, smoothie or food discount.
Currently, subscribers are given a QR code they can add to their Apple or Google wallets.
When purchasing one of five free drinks daily or 20 per cent off food, Club members simply have to scan the code.
But the existing system has made it easy for people to send screengrabs of their QR codes to friends to use.
The new rules will come into effect on March 18, despite some customers complaining that it will be less convenient.
A spokesperson for the coffee and sandwich shop said: “We’re updating how Club Pret subscribers access their QR codes as we continue to invest in our digital offer for customers.
“QR Codes will now be available exclusively via the Pret App and can no longer be added to Apple or Google wallets. Live QR codes will be reissued to all subscribers.
“This will deliver a more complete digital experience, so that the Pret App becomes the main digital touchpoint for our customers. We encourage any customers that need further support to contact our customer service team.”
Pret introduced subscriptions in 2020, when the company was struggling to attract customers after the first Covid lockdown.
For £30 a month, members can receive five free coffees or smoothies a day and 20 per cent off food.
The subscription is used by customers 1.25 million times a week, the chain reports.
