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Why are stores changing their coupon policies? I asked and found the answer
So, as many of us are figuring out, since TLC's "Extreme Couponing" started many people have started to coupon heavily. This has resulted in an overload of people only knowing that way to coupon. The Publix closest to me is considering revamping their coupon policy and so is Kroger, and both have already started limiting quantities. Instead of being discouraged, I decided to ask why. I've built quite a relationship with the managers in both locations and they're always friendly with me. I came in one day without my binder and the manager said.."You're shopping without coupons today? I'm surprised." I laughed and said, "I'm only here for milk today and you don't have coupons on that. LOL"
Anyway, their explanation to the changes made total sense after what I saw today.
The new Publix ad in my area started yesterday 6/30. I went today to pick up a few things that were a part of the bogo because I had coupons and knew I'd be able to save big and pick up some brands I was out of. I get to the store and surprise, the few items I'd wanted to pick up - the shelves were EMPTY!!! Not, 1 or 2 boxes sitting on the shelf, EMPTY. End caps and bins - EMPTY. The sale had only been going a day and they were completely wiped out.
The managers explained the changes are being contemplated because of excessive shelf clearing and being out of items so early. Now I would think that if they're doing BOGO's, it would be their responsibility to have plenty of stock on hand, which they usually try..but I understand their point. If you stock up and one person comes in and clears it out, because they think "I've got 100 coupons for it, let's buy 100", not only does it hurt other couponers but it hurts the general community who can't get what they want and will take their business elsewhere.
If we want to be able to enjoy using our coupons and having fun scouting for deals, then we need to be considerate of others and STOP CLEARING SHELVES! It's been explained that items go on sale in rotations...and I'm sure if there's a good buy on something once, it will come around again relatively soon (usually 6 - 8 weeks). There's no need to buy 50 - 100 of something just because it's on sale and you have a coupon. (Example: Dishwashing detergent. Do you really have to buy 100 boxes if each contains 30 packs? That's enough to last for almost a year if you run your dishwasher everyday. Think about it, I'm sure that the dishwashing detergent will go on sale again and a coupon will be out before you run out.)
We need to police within ourselves...if we don't, the stores are going to do it and make it harder and harder for us to save money. If you see a couponer picking up an excessive amount and clearing a shelf, say something! Of course, be polite about it..no need to start a fight or go to jail (all of the money you've saved will have to be spent on bail..lol), but we've got to remind those that are doing it of common courtesy.
Stock piles can be a benefit but there's no need to hoard and make it impossible for everyone else to take part of a great buy!!!
Items you would not "purchase", even if free!
I was just wondering what items you have tried with coupons (RRs, ECBs) that you found out you do not like or absolutely hate? What about items that you love, that you did not buy before couponing?
Hate: Colgate toothpaste (anyone need any? LOL), Olay Ribbons body wash (gave me a rash in a very private place )
Love: Birds Eye Voila meals, Gillete profusion glid razor (my husbands shaves more often !!!)
A little put off...
I went today to the recycling center at my post office where I usually come away with at least 40 inserts from Redplum and the P&Gs when they come out.
I saw a young boy (and the father - who was in the dumpster) standing beside their car with the back door open and inside the backseat was filled at least 2 feet high with all the thrown out inserts. I've never seen anyone take so many coupons! I don't even think the coupon value for the redplums and PGs were that great.
I wanted some, so I walked up, made a little chitchat...the bin he was in had ALL the inserts and I didn't want to encroach on them - they did get there first. But the guy was already at the bottom! Let me have a few dammit! I squeaked out with less than 15 inserts. Which is alright for me...but I'd prefer at least 20. :/
We're all trying to save money now, I understand that. But don't hog all the free coupons! I was a little put off by them taking away several 2ft stacks...
