Do you need a special discount/loyalty card for shopping in Istanbul (e.g. at the Grand Bazaar)?

In October 2026 a participant explained the general principle: in Turkish shops and supermarkets, discounts are tied to a Turkish phone number rather than to a physical loyalty card. So the question is usually not about the card but about the number.

This does not always work. In August 2026 a traveler said she was not sold the item at the discounted price even though a Turkish woman nearby offered her number: the cashier said this was not allowed. Other participants replied that they had always received the discount, so much depends on the specific store and cashier.

In July 2026 participants wrote in two separate messages that the Gratis card is not necessary: the store will give you the discount without it. Instead of a card, the cashier usually asks for a Turkish phone number.

If you have no Turkish number, travelers reported in July 2026 that the cashier may ask other shoppers nearby — for example, Turkish women in the queue — and the discount is still applied.