Office Depot Rewards: Exciting News for Members*
MrConsumer always likes getting good news in the mail. This letter just arrived from Office Depot’s reward program announcing “Exciting news for Advantage members”. The envelope goes on to say that rewards are now unlimited (previously there was a $50 cap per quarter). Inside, members learn the bad news.
*MOUSE PRINT: “Earn 5% back when you spend $200 or more on qualified purchases during the reward period.” [Direct mail piece, May 27, 2006.]
Office Depot’s original program paid back up to 10% when you spent $200 to $500 a quarter. It was by far the most generous reward program among the big three office supply superstores. Now instead of getting $20 back for a $200 purchase, you will only get $10 back.
While removing the cap on rewards benefits large purchasers, there is no getting around the fact that the reward has been halved (for those purchasing just over $200, $300, $400, or $500 per quarter).
The above description is not meant as a complete analysis of the pros and cons of the Office Depot reward program.
If this 50% reduction works for OD, then maybe Social Security Administration should consider the same new EXCITING advantage reward program. This NEW deal is a shopping breaker for my business at OD and now I can go to Staples on an even basis.
Comment by Jerry — June 5, 2006 @ 1:24 pmOn top of all the rebates you have to put up with at OD now this!
Comment by Darren — September 26, 2006 @ 8:46 amThe most expensive items Office Depot sells (computers, etc) are not eligible
Comment by Ken — September 27, 2006 @ 9:05 amfor the rewards card.