Overview

• Almost three-quarters of German smartphone users have downloaded a supermarket app, attracted by features like digital coupons, loyalty points and mobile payments.
• Under the DSGVO, users can choose which data to share, yet apps still collect details such as store visits, purchase history, device settings and user demographics.
• Consumer advocates report that the typical discount from app-based promotions amounts to less than one percent of the total shopping value.
• Retailers use the insights from app data to refine product assortments, reduce waste and target marketing to individual shopping habits.
• Experts warn that heavy reliance on app-based deals can discourage shoppers from comparing prices across different stores.