Jewel launches loyalty program: trading stamps

Jewel-Osco stores in the area are offering a new cookware promotion that puts a twist on one of the original grocery store loyalty programs -- trading stamps.

Under the program customers who shop with their Preferred Customer Card between Aug. 26 and Jan. 12, 2011 will receive a reward sticker for every $10 spent on eligible purchases.

As the stickers are collected, customers will be able to place them on saver cards, which can then be redeemed at participating stores for eight different pieces of Thomas Professional Cookware at the cost of a penny each.

The stickers can be redeemed through Jan. 26. The new cookware program hearkens back to earlier generations. During the 1950s and '60s, trading stamps were a popular way for grocery stores and other merchants to help drive customer loyalty.