Grocery store loyalty programs are not just for discounts on food—they can also lead to real savings at the gas pump. Retailers like Kroger and Safeway offer gas rewards that accumulate as you shop, turning your everyday purchases into fuel discounts. Here’s how to maximize these programs for serious savings.
- How Kroger Fuel Points Work
- Every time you shop at Kroger, you earn Fuel Points.
- Typically, you earn 1 point for every $1 spent on groceries, with special promotions offering double or triple points on certain items.
- Every 100 points = 10 cents off per gallon at participating Kroger Fuel Centers and select Shell stations.
Pro Tip: Watch for bonus events like “4X Fuel Points on Gift Cards,” where you can quickly accumulate points by purchasing gift cards for retailers you already shop at.
- How Safeway Gas Rewards Work
- The Safeway Gas Rewards program works similarly to Kroger’s.
- Earn 1 point for every $1 spent on groceries, and double points on qualifying gift card purchases.
- Redeem points for fuel savings at Safeway fuel stations or participating Chevron and Texaco locations.
Pro Tip: Safeway often runs digital coupon promotions where you can boost your earnings by clipping special offers through their app.
- How to Redeem Gas Rewards
At the pump:
- Swipe your grocery store loyalty card or enter your phone number.
- Choose to redeem your points (usually in increments of 100 points = 10 cents off per gallon).
- Most programs allow up to a maximum savings of $1.00 off per gallon, depending on your accumulated points.
- Important Rules to Remember
- Fuel points typically expire at the end of the month after they are earned.
- You can often stack points to maximize your per-gallon discount up to a full tank limit (usually 35 gallons).
- Some stations cap discounts at specific maximum savings or restrict redemptions during certain promotions.
- Tips for Maximizing Grocery Store Gas Rewards
- Buy gift cards during promotional periods to accelerate point accumulation.
- Combine manufacturer coupons, store sales, and gift card bonuses during one shopping trip for maximum points.
- Link your loyalty accounts to cashback apps like Ibotta where possible to stack grocery and fuel rewards.
Example of Smart Stacking:
- Spend $250 on groceries and $100 on gift cards during a 4X Fuel Points promotion.
- Earn 250 + (400 from gift cards) = 650 points.
- Redeem for 60 cents off per gallon at your next fill-up, saving up to $21 on a 35-gallon fill.
Grocery store gas rewards programs like Kroger Fuel Points and Safeway Gas Rewards are easy ways to save on both groceries and fuel. With a little planning and attention to promotions, you can turn everyday shopping into significant savings at the pump.
