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Stores Use Discount Cards To Notify Of Recall
crazyj writes "USA Today is one of many sources running a story about how some supermarkets used their "discount" shopping cards to notify customers of a beef recall. Interestingly, some stores did not use the information because they felt it violated the customer's privacy. I always use a fake name and address when I sign up for those, but do others feel that the stores were justified in 'violating' their privacy agreement?"
I've been a shopper of Stop & Shop, a local but rather large and conglomorate supermarket. They're very cool though, they have everything (including a Dunkin Donuts and a bank built in) and have automated checkouts.
The people there are great. I've met the managers at all of the local stores and they are very nice people, and have helped my grandmother on many occasions.
Their receipts always tell me how much I've saved this visit, and year-to-date. They've printed out customized coupons numerous times that I've actually used, wheras I throw out all others. They've also sent me (and I presume thousands of others) customized mailers, some with bonuses based on my shopping. I've never had a problem with this. In fact, I find it an incredible demonstration of how technology makes things good. I've never received a plain-old weekly flyer from them, they know I don't want it. Instead, I only get what I do want.
I've always been aware of the fact, from day one, that they associate my purchases with my identity. If they want to also warn me of potential health hazards, not knowing I'm highly intelligent and knew about it before them, that's wonderful, and I really hope they do. If not for my sake, for the sake of people like my grandmother, who eat beef pretty much raw.
I also love Microsoft, and develop software with their tools for their platform, and encourage people to stick with it. So you may want to take my opinion with a grain (or ton) of salt.