A regular Sainsbury’s shopper has drawn attention to a lesser-known in-app feature that allows customers to collect extra Nectar card points in addition to the usual loyalty rewards.
This discovery, recently shared on TikTok and reported by Birmingham Mail, has sparked renewed interest in how the supermarket’s digital tools can be used to maximize returns on even the smallest purchases.
The method is being praised for its ease of use and the cumulative impact it can have over time, especially for those who shop frequently. Many now see it as a smart habit with real savings potential.
Digital Interaction Adds Value to Routine Purchases
The method involves scanning a Nectar card during each transaction at Sainsbury’s, even for purchases as small as £1 or £2. After completing a transaction, users frequently receive a notification through the Sainsbury’s app inviting them to play a brief interactive game.
The customer known as Save the Student—who shared the hack via TikTok—explained:
Every time you shop there make sure you scan your Nectar card even if you’re only spending £1 or £2, because pretty much every time I shop in Sainsbury’s I get a notification to play this little game where you uncover your bonus Nectar points.
The game consists of swiping across the screen to reveal extra points. Although not guaranteed, it’s reported that the vast majority of interactions result in bonus Nectar points, typically at least 10 points per session.
Minimal Effort, Consistent Rewards
According to Save the Student, the activity is remarkably quick and usually rewarding:
Very occasionally you’ll get nothing, but almost all the time you’ll get at least 10 points, if not way more and it literally takes about two seconds.
This simple action, repeated over time, can result in a significant number of loyalty points.
Honestly, I must have earned hundreds – if not thousands – of points from this over time.
Even though it may take a while to accumulate £100 worth of points, the user emphasized that the points “add up” passively through consistent use.
Nectar Points Used Across Retail and Travel Partners
Nectar points can be redeemed across a wide selection of retailers and services, including Argos, Caffè Nero, and EasyJet holidays. Points may also be used in Sainsbury’s stores for discounts on various products.
For drivers, Esso petrol stations offer 5p off per litre when shoppers exchange 300 Nectar points, offering another tangible use case for the rewards.
The use of a simple mobile game to enhance point earnings reflects a broader shift in how retail loyalty programs are evolving. By integrating gamified elements and encouraging digital interaction, retailers can foster deeper user engagement while providing meaningful incentives.
For shoppers already using the Sainsbury’s app, the feature presents an easy and time-efficient way to maximize the return on everyday purchases.
