Korean Job Discussion Forums

Enigma · Joined: 20 Mar 2008

I live in a small city and so the only big supermarket we have is E-Mart. As I live near it, I usually end up going there a couple of times a week and buying most of my groceries there. Every time I pay for my stuff, the cashier asks me if I want an E-Mart card. I always say no, because I didn't see any use for them.
But now I'm wondering if there's any value to them. Do you actually save money when you use them, or are they just for collecting points to put towards stuff I don't want?

Thanks

giraffe · Joined: 07 Apr 2009

well Emart supermarket is pretty much as big as they get. So you're not missing out on anything. Maybe costco??

As far as emart point card ( not credit card). I would get one if i were you if you shop there alot ( why not?). You can exchange the points for Emart gift certifcates ( which is as good as money in emart). wife waits until theres 20k won worth of points until she exchanges them. Not bad if you ask me.. Better than nothing.

schwa · Joined: 18 Jan 2003 Location: Yap

On principle I just avoid point card schemes. Did back in my home country when they were first introduced there too. They're a not so subtle push for you to be a loyal customer, track your consuming habits for advertising purposes, & induce you to spend more for insignificant rewards.

sojusucks · Joined: 31 May 2008

Lottemart has one, too, and it doesn't get you much of anything. You still get the sales prices with or without a card. The only place you need a card is Costco.

crsandus · Joined: 05 Oct 2004

I'd suggest getting a card just so you can avoid answering the question. That's what I did.

banillaq · Joined: 24 Feb 2005

Having a card at one of the big three supermarkets- E-mart, Lotte Mart and Homeplus also entitles you to their monthly coupon booklets. These are sent out to your home address if you have a membership card. Some of the coupons are quite valuable. For instance, this month in the Lotte Mart booklet they have a 5,000won discount on the instant ice coffee packets I usually buy. In addition, they have a 2,000won discount coupon if you spend more than I believe 60,000won. IMO, you are pissing away money if you dont have a membership card at the supermarket that you shop at.