The New Cash Registers

Cash registers today are very sophisticated. In fact, they are really computers programmed weekly to reflect store sales, and collect data about your shopping habits. These registers also help the store keep an product inventory. This is a great concept when supermarkets order additional products, reducing costly errors.But this is just the tip of the iceberg.

I recently took a look at my register receipt and I was amazed at the information outlined. It all starts when the checker scans the Frequent Shopper card. In case you've forgotten your card, your telephone number will usually bring up your data.

The next step is the scanning of all the purchases via the unique bar codes on each product with the price displayed on the register screen. Finally coupons are deducted, the total displayed and the receipt printed out. After reviewing the receipt, here's what I found. Each purchase is itemized listing first the regular price and next the sale price. The coupon savings are deducted next and the total is shown last. Then the fun begins.

The next bit of data shows the number of coupons used, my total coupon savings and the percent I saved using coupons and store sales. My receipt also keeps track of any special promotions and how close I am to achieving the goal. Recently the store had a Frozen Food special. When purchasing $75 in Frozen Foods within a 60 day period, you'd receive $15 off your next purchase.

Each receipt shows my total Frozen Foods purchase Here's the result of my last receipt. My total bill after deductions was $107.47, I saved 51% or $112.99 and for the for the first 10 weeks my overall savings was $532.74. If I continue at this pace, I will save about $3000.00 for the year.

Not bad when you consider this was the result of Smart Shopping, shopping sales, using coupons, changing my habits, being brand flexible and organization.

One last tidbit to remember is that no matter how sophisticated these registers are, there are mistakes. Before I leave the store, I check the receipt for errors and if and when I find them I immediately go to the courtesy desk for a correction. The reason this is so easy is the listing of both the regular and sale price of each item.

Keep in mind that some stores will even give you the item free if the error is theirs. So it always pays to take the extra minute and check that receipt before leaving.

My last receipt was almost 2 feet long with all the information printed. But it's a great way to keep track of all my purchases and savings and a great way to boast as I'm doing right now. Want more coupons? Go to my site: www.couponqueen.com and look for the almost 150 free printable coupons.

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