SHOPPERS used to picking up a free national newspaper at Waitrose have discovered a set-back this week, after finding they must now spend £10 in-store first.

Previously, shoppers had to spend only £5 to enjoy the perk, but the firm has hiked the minimum spend by 100 per cent.

The change took effect on Tuesday at all stores. Waitrose has around 350 branches in the UK, including at Foss Islands Road in York. 

When it was announced, a company spokesman said: "Like any business, we regularly review promotions to ensure we balance providing value for our customers with a return on our investment.

York Press:

"We are still the only supermarket where if you buy a selected newspaper, you will receive money off the rest of your shopping."

Last month, the company had also upset some loyalty card holders by announcing restrictions on its free coffee offer.

Since 2013, card holders have been able to claim a free coffee whenever they visit Waitrose stores, but the firm is now trialling a restriction in eight branches in the south, where shoppers must first buy something else.