The Little Ice Cream Shop has branches in Hawkshead, Bowness and Windermere and originally introduced the scheme as a thank you to locals for their continued support.
It was also a gesture of goodwill in light of increased tourism.
But the initiative has reportedly been exploited far beyond its intended reach.
The discount cards, meant exclusively for residents of Hawkshead, Bowness and Windermere, have somehow made their way across the globe with reports of cards being used as far afield as Australia.
A post created by owner Amy McPherson and the team on the business’ Facebook page read: “As a small business – we are really upset to be writing this post as we really didn’t think people would be so cheeky to try and scam us out of something we created to say thank you to the locals of Hawkshead, Windermere & Bowness for supporting us and our journey throughout the years
“We also did it as we know that our x3 business’ have a huge impact on the amount of footfall of people coming into their lovely villages they call home… it’s kind of a ‘sorry for the extra people – we love you and thank you for everything’.
“Unfortunately, it is being abused by people all over the world at the moment and our cards have gotten as far as Australia.
“Because we firmly believe in supporting the lovely local community and refuse to allow a couple of numptys to ruin it for everyone – we are not getting rid of the discount.”
The Little Ice Cream Shop in Bowness (Image: Little Ice Cream Shop) The business has laid out its action plan which is as follows:
1. recall all of the cards. All of the local discount cards in circulation will be voided as of Saturday 26th April 2025
2. Issue new cards to those that come in and have their details registered with us
3. Give new cards out as of Saturday 26th April 2025
4. Discount is valid for all shops
The new cards will be valid for 2025-2026 and the whole process will be done again in order for those cards to stay with the rightful owners.
Cards must be shown upon purchase and only for people living in Hawkshead, Bowness-on-Windermere and Windermere. Addresses will checked upon registration, said the post.
The post went on to say: “We’re not exactly Elon Musk with money to fly Katy Perry to space – we’re a micro business that is open six months a year. I cannot believe the cheek and it’s incredibly disappointing.
“Anyway to those that haven’t been cheeky – we love you, thank you for your continued support. Lots of love, Amy & Team TLICS.”
