Asda customers have expressed frustration after being unable to use the supermarket’s loyalty scheme at its new Express convenience stores. The Rewards scheme, which allows customers to collect loyalty points and receive vouchers, is currently not available at these stores. Asda has stated that it is in the process of updating its systems to enable the acceptance of Asda Rewards at all stores in the future.
Sainsbury’s has announced plans to cut approximately 1,500 roles as part of its ongoing operational shake-up. The company, which also owns Argos, had previously refused to rule out job losses under its strategy update for investors. The restructuring includes a greater focus on food within its supermarkets, with more space allocated to this category.
Several key financial changes are set to take place in March. Regulated train fares in England will increase by up to 4.9% on Sunday. Pensioners have until 5 March to claim Pension Credit and potentially receive an additional £299. The spring budget will be revealed on 6 March, outlining the government’s financial plan for the year. Inflation data will be released on 20 March, and the Bank of England’s Monetary Policy Committee will make a decision on interest rates on 21 March.
Telecoms providers will raise the price of broadband and mobile contracts on 31 March or 1 April, affecting millions of customers. The £842m Household Support Fund scheme, which assists people struggling with essential expenses, is due to close on 31 March. Additionally, the Warm Home Discount scheme, which provides a one-off discount on energy bills, will end on the same date.
The French government has announced a ban on the use of meat terms on plant-based meat products. Terms such as “steak,” “ham,” and “prime rib” will be prohibited, and new labels will be introduced. Violators of the law will face fines of €7,500. Exceptions will be made for products containing a small amount of plant-based content.
Mortgage approvals to home buyers in the UK reached the highest level since 2022 in January, with 55,227 mortgages approved for purchase. This positive trend reflects increased optimism in the housing market. However, completed housing transactions continue to lag behind other indicators, indicating that the market remains price sensitive.
The Body Shop will close additional stores within weeks, resulting in 489 job losses. The brand’s administrators have deemed its current portfolio unviable due to years of unprofitability. The closures follow the previous announcement of store closures and job cuts at the company’s London headquarters.
For those considering quitting their jobs to go traveling, travel bloggers Megan Wright and Michelle Halpern offer advice on planning and saving. Financial preparedness is crucial to ensure an enjoyable and stress-free trip. Budgeting and researching costs in advance are essential steps in the planning process. Saving a percentage of income, freelancing, and cutting back on expenses are some strategies recommended by the bloggers.
Overall, these key financial moments in March will have an impact on consumers’ pockets, with changes in rail fares, pension credit, interest rates, and various other areas.
