For those of us over 60, there’s good news! Many shops and businesses offer special discounts to seniors, which can be a great help when it comes to stretching your finances and enjoying the Christmas season without breaking the bank.
Here’s a guide to finding and making the most of these discounts while doing your holiday shopping.
1. Supermarkets Offering Discounts to Over 60s
Food shopping is often one of the biggest expenses at Christmas, but several UK supermarkets recognise the financial challenges faced by older customers and offer senior discounts. Although these discounts are not always advertised, it’s worth checking in-store or online to see if they are available.
Co-op: In some regions, Co-op stores offer a senior discount of 10% on selected days when you present a valid membership card.
Iceland: Iceland offers ‘Over 60s Tuesdays’, where customers over the age of 60 can receive 10% off their grocery bill. This can be a lifesaver when stocking up on festive treats and essentials.
Always ask the cashier or check online for updates, as these offers can vary by location and may only be available on specific days of the week.
2. High Street Shops with Discounts for Seniors
Many high street retailers offer discounts for those over 60, particularly in the lead-up to Christmas. These stores can be excellent places to shop for gifts without overspending. Here are a few places to keep an eye on:
Boots: Boots frequently offers discounts for Advantage Card holders, including those over 60. The Advantage Card also allows you to collect points that can be redeemed on future purchases, perfect for stocking up on toiletries and beauty gifts.
Marks & Spencer: M&S often runs promotions, and while they don’t have a fixed senior discount, there are regular sales and loyalty schemes that offer excellent value. Keep an eye on their festive sales and loyalty vouchers.
Clarks: If you’re looking to treat yourself or a loved one to some comfortable shoes for Christmas, Clarks offers a 10% discount to seniors, which can be used in-store and online.
3. Discounts on Food and Drink
Whether you’re planning a Christmas dinner or just want to enjoy some festive meals out, many restaurants and cafes provide discounts for older customers. Here are some options to consider:
Harvester: Harvester restaurants often offer a senior citizen discount or special menus at reduced prices. This is perfect for a relaxed meal out during the festive season.
Wetherspoons: Many Wetherspoons pubs have discounted meal offers for older customers, especially during lunchtime. This can be a great way to meet up with friends for a festive meal without spending too much.
Morrisons Café: Some Morrisons cafés offer special discounts for seniors, so it’s worth checking if your local branch has a Christmas offer. They often have a great selection of meals, perfect for a festive catch-up over a hot meal or tea.
4. Looking Out for Special Christmas Promotions
As Christmas approaches, businesses often increase their promotions and special offers, and many extend these to senior customers. Keep an eye out for seasonal promotions in your local area, as smaller independent shops and markets often offer discounts to attract older shoppers.
Local Garden Centres: Many garden centres offer senior discount days. They’re great places to pick up Christmas decorations, plants, and even unique gifts.
Department Stores: Stores like Debenhams or House of Fraser occasionally run senior discount days, and during the festive season, there are often sales where you can stack additional discounts. Look for ‘friends and family’ events which sometimes allow extra reductions.
5. Online Shopping for Discounts
Many older shoppers are now turning to online shopping for its convenience, especially during the busy Christmas period. There are numerous online retailers offering senior discounts or loyalty schemes that can make shopping easier and cheaper.
Amazon: While Amazon doesn’t offer specific senior discounts, they do have deals during their Christmas and Black Friday sales that can help you save on everything from gifts to food hampers. If you’re an Amazon Prime member, you can also take advantage of fast and free shipping, which can be particularly handy during the festive rush.
Sainsbury’s Online: Sainsbury’s often runs promotions, and signing up for their Nectar Card can lead to discounts on groceries, gifts, and festive drinks.
6. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask
Many businesses don’t always advertise their discounts for seniors, but that doesn’t mean they aren’t available. Whether you’re in a large chain store or a small local shop, it never hurts to ask if they offer a discount for those over 60. Many staff members will be happy to let you know about any available offers.
In restaurants or cafés, don’t hesitate to ask about senior menus or discounts, particularly when ordering Christmas meals. You might be surprised at the savings you can find simply by asking the question.
7. Use Your Concessions to Save on Travel
Don’t forget that many of us over 60 can also take advantage of travel concessions, which will help us get to the shops for less. Whether it’s a Senior Railcard or free bus travel (over 65s, now) using these benefits can cut down the cost of travelling to do your Christmas shopping.
If you’re visiting a shopping centre or travelling to see family and friends over the festive period, these savings can quickly add up, leaving more in your budget for gifts and treats.
As we prepare for the festive season, those of us over 60 can take advantage of a wide range of discounts that make Christmas shopping more affordable. From food and drinks to gifts and festive treats, these savings can help ease the financial burden while still allowing you to celebrate in style.
By being mindful of where to shop and asking about senior discounts, you can ensure that your Christmas is filled with joy, goodwill, and great value. Happy bargain hunting and have a wonderful festive season!
This website will be of help to those of us who are over 60:- https://www.over60sdiscounts.co.uk