Dollar General expands financial services with cash back program
Dollar General is partnering with a third-party rewards platform to offer cash-back options to all consumers.
The discount retailer, which launched a series of new financial services aimed at increasing access to banking options and providing additional customer payment alternatives in March 2022, is collaborating with Ibotta.
As part of the partnership, Dollar General will join the Ibotta Performance Network (IPN), a digital network that enables promotions to be delivered in a coordinated fashion across retailer platforms, third-party publisher sites, and Ibotta’s direct-to-consumer properties.
Consumers can currently receive cash-back rewards on thousands of items at Dollar General through Ibotta’s platform. The retailer expects to offer cash-back rewards directly through its consumer app and website by spring 2023.
Other Dollar General financial offerings include:
Spendwell
Available exclusively through Dollar General in partnership with InComm Payments and issued by MetaBank, the Spendwell bank account and Visa card is available at Dollar General’s stores, as well as through a dedicated online platform and mobile banking app.
Spendwell provides customers with two financial account options, including one with no monthly fees and another that allows customers to earn 1% unlimited cash back to be redeemed on purchases at Dollar General. Both account options include an accompanying Visa debit card, which can be used anywhere Visa debit cards are accepted. They also provide as access to the Spendwell app, which enables users to perform financial tasks such as managing everyday expenses and paying bills.
In addition, all Spendwell accounts include free features and services, such as direct deposit with early access to wages, ability to add cash at Dollar General, and online bill payment.
DG Buy Now Pay Later
Dollar General is testing a BNPL purchase option through a partnership with Sezzle at more than 1,700 stores in Texas. The "DG Buy Now Pay Later" program provides customers with zero-interest payments on purchases, allowing them to pay for their purchases in four installments when purchasing items at Dollar General stores, or for in-store pickup on the Dollar General app or online.
When customers apply via app, they receive an instant response detailing their spending limit. Dollar General will evaluate the test to assess expansion opportunities.
Rewards redemption
Dollar General also is piloting an added payment option with the FIS Premium Payback real-time rewards redemption network. Customers will be able to redeem eligible credit and debit card rewards points toward their Dollar General purchase.
Currently available at more than 18,000 Dollar General stores in 46 states, customers with eligible FIS bank debit and credit cards may redeem 1,000 credit card points for $5 toward their purchase of $5.01 or more.
“We are excited to provide an additional innovative option for our customers to help stretch their budgets,” said Emily Taylor, Dollar General executive VP and chief merchandising officer. “Ibotta’s cash back rewards program further complements our continuous efforts to provide financial offerings and rewards to customers alongside our everyday low prices.”
“Dollar General has enjoyed explosive growth because of its innovative approach to helping consumers stretch their budgets,” said Bryan Leach, Ibotta founder and CEO. "Partnering with like-minded brands is a priority for us, and Dollar General is deeply committed to creating maximum value for their customers through seamless, customized programs that help save them even more money.”
Headquartered in Goodlettsville, Tenn., Dollar General operated 18,818 stores in 47 states as of Oct. 28, 2022.