Opting Out

[pastafreak]

Has this always been a thing? I've just received a message from Sainsbury's asking if I want to opt out of Mother's Day offers and messages. Earlier this month, Tescos asked if I'd like to opt out of Valentine's offers. It's only my first year as an online customer, so I was wondering if they've always done this.

[Mamyalynne]

I think it's quite recent for many companies, I have had similar,not just from supermarkets but others like Moonpig and those selling gifts.

[barry1010]

I've had the same from Ocado and Tesco, they don't want to offend my sensibilities

[Hopkirk]

It's probably in response to complaints from people who find such messages distressing for personal reasons.

[Buenchico]

Here are the current rules:
https://ico.org.uk/for-organisations/guide-to-pecr/electronic-and-telephone-marketing/electronic-mail-marketing/

Companies seem to be getting more aware of the rules on sending out marketing emails. In particular, they seem to have realised that the 'soft opt-in', which allows them to send you general marketing emails, might not apply to specific marketing campaigns around, say, Mothers' Day. So they're 'covering their backs' by checking that you're happy to receive such messages.

[Buenchico]

The only time I can remember being offended by marketing messages was back in my teaching day when, in June (a full month before schools had broken up for the summer holidays), shops were advertising "Back to School" offers. We teachers didn't want reminding that we'd have to go back to work ;-)

[Mamyalynne]

I have never been offended, indeed some offers around these dates can be very good for anyone.

I have been frustrated with a few survey companies who fail to match surveys to my details (which they have on their system) leading to half completed surveys which kick you out with no reward.

[Peter Pedant]

// We teachers didn't want reminding that we'd have to go back to work ;-)//

you were different Buen ..... but
some teachers didnt seem to want reminding they were meant to teach at all ....

[tonyav]

Earlier this month, Tescos asked if I'd like to opt out of Valentine's offers.

I had that one to. Can't remember them doing it before.

[woofgang]

I get it and think its a good idea.

[Mamyalynne]

It's nice to be asked.

[Maydup]

It does seem to be a reasonably new idea and a very welcome one. I might have opted in for emails and have control over my marketing preferences, but taking it to this next level in response to sensitivities is very good customer services.

There is nothing worse than receiving endless suggestions of lovely treats for your loved one on these various noteable dates, when your loved one is no longer with you. Its good to be able to opt out without opting out of all communication.