PC Optimum launch runs into issues on day one

Tori Floyd
·Editor

As Loblaw launches its new rewards program on February 1, customers are having a lot of difficulties with the new system.

Starting Thursday, loyalty card holders for PC Plus and Shoppers Optimum are part of the new PC Optimum program (which you can read all about in our breakdown here).

While the interest was expected to be high, it appears that the rollout isn’t going as well as anticipated for Loblaw, the parent company of Shoppers Drug Mart, T&T Supermarket, Loblaws, Real Canadian Superstore, No Frills, Fortinos, Independent and more.

Customers who log into their existing PC Plus or Shoppers Optimum apps are directed to download the new PC Plus app from the app store. Many users of the app have been complaining that the transition has not been a smooth one.

Two major problems have arisen for customers: PC Plus card holders are reporting that they get stuck in a loop when trying to download the app from the app store, as it says the app is already installed. Deleting the PC Plus app and installing the PC Optimum app seems to fix the problem.

Other customers are unable to load their offers. The cornerstone of the PC Optimum program is loading coupons for points on specific items to the card, via the app or the website. Without the ability to see the offers, customers are unable to get points at grocery stores. Points can still be earned at Shoppers Drug Mart on all purchases.

The PC Optimum Twitter account has been active this morning, but not all customers have been satisfied with the responses, which range from glib to uninformative.

Yahoo Canada Finance readers, have you tried signing up for the new PC Optimum card and app? Have you had any problems? Share your experiences in the comments.

Download the Yahoo Finance app, available for Apple and Android.