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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Business
Zoe Wood

Sparks fly as M&S says no to a plastic loyalty card

a picture of the black M&S Sparks car and vouchers
Marks & Spencer’s Sparks offers discounts, but you have to request a physical card. Photograph: David Humphreys/Alamy

After my grandfather’s death, my 87-year-old grandmother moved into a retirement home. She is happy there and one of the best things is the nearby Marks & Spencer food hall.

However, when I tried to sign her up for a Sparks card, so she can access any discounts and deals, we were told she needed an email and a smartphone. It no longer issues paper or cards. To my mind this is digital exclusion.

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