Lidl won the favor of many customers in the Czech Republic by offering goods or services that were not available elsewhere, and others subsequently copied or even failed to do so. But as it turns out, such a pro-client approach can really run into cash.
Nobody offered it
For example, crates with fruit and vegetables, sold for a few crowns, have become very popular and Lidl avoids waste. At the same time, they will please their customers, who feel they have saved money.
Another big advantage of Lidl was the fact that electric car owners could recharge their cars here for free. A free-access charging station has been installed in each car park of this chain.
The supply chain thus showed itself in a very progressive light when it decided to go along with one of the current trends, which is certainly electromobility. The service was very popular, even before, when electricity was not that expensive. But who could resist free fast charging for their car, right?
But then the energy crisis came and the price of electricity literally skyrocketed. The charging station has become a staple in practically every Lidl car park, and it absolutely cannot be said that the people who charge their cars here are customers at the same time.
Customers were abusing it
So it has always been intended. The car had to be charged only for the time the person was shopping, which means for example half an hour. But people started abusing this advantage and charging their cars here, which means, for example, an hour and a half. Others then did not have the opportunity to recharge and there were also various conflicts.
Lidl therefore decided to cancel the free top-up. Of course, very expensive electricity will also play a role in this. Today, charging a car at such stations costs as much as refueling a full tank.
Charging stations will continue to be available, but you will have to pay for them according to the supplier’s price list. Over time it is expected that the recharge will connect to the Lidl app, which would allow loyal customers to propose various offers and discounts in this direction.
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