AMT Public

More than 1,000 of the new Faversham, Kent shoppers’ loyalty cards have been sold in just two months and organisers are describing the scheme’s early days as a huge success.

Launched in July with 18 local businesses taking part, the card scheme has smart card technology to let shoppers build up points at outlets they use. The cutting-edge scheme is the first of its kind in Kent and one of just six in the UK. Each of the 18 businesses is offering discounts or incentives in return for the points.

Barley Mow is offering a £5 voucher for every point built up at the shop, while Optima Opticians offer a straight 5% discount on all purchases. One of the more unusual offers is from Lady Dane Veterinary Centre which offers credits to help pay for vaccinations, dental work and neutering.

Ima Rix, project coordinator for the Faversham Enterprise Partnership, which is behind the scheme, said: “We have been struggling to keep up with demand. I’ve had a lot of positive feedback from the businesses involved. We plan a further launch in November to officially welcome on board new businesses who are now joining up.”

The latest shop to join is Davies & Eason, the Preston Street television retailer.

Steve Wylie of Savvy UK (www.savvy-loyalty.co.uk) which runs the card system, said: “The Faversham launch has been extremely successful with more than 1,000 cards sold and more businesses wanting to join. The Faversham scheme is the sixth loyalty card scheme Savvy has helped implement.”