"Blinky the Shark" > wrote in message
news
> George wrote:
>
>> Paul M. Cook wrote:
>>
>>
>>> I can assure you they keep those records. I know, I helped them do it.
>>> Now what they will do with that info I do not know but they most
>>> definitely keep a history of everything you buy and when and where too.
>>> It's hugely valuable information for advertisers who would pay a lot of
>>> money for it.
>>>
>>> I keep all my cards anonymous. You simply do not have to fill out the
>>> form to get the card. Just tell them you won't but you want the card
>>> anyway. They have to provide it.
>>
>> I am not sure why they would have to provide a purchase tracking ID card
>> to you if you decline to give them your information.
>
> I doubt that they have to. I think when they do it's simply to keep from
> ****ing off a customer (remember the "customer is always right" bullshit),
> even it's one they can't identify; even an anonymous customer's money is
> money.
>
>> I have only tried a few times and in each case they demanded
>> identification and refused to issued the purchase tracking ID card when
>> I refused to give them my driver's license.
>
> Seems like that's their right; it's their program -- their offer to give
> you reduced prices. Same idea as Coscto: Want this? Trade us for that.
> In the cases at hand, it's information. In the Costco case, it's that
> information *and cash*. If one's afraid of the grocery club card idea,
> they should also be refusing to be a Costco member; but most probably
> don't think that far into the idea.


Last I heard they wanted to merge their ATM purchase records with your club
card purchases. That way they could attach a person to the purchase. So
they get you one way or another. But trust me, they want that info and you
have to wonder why.

Paul