Coupon Varieties
(March 21, 2011)
C.W.
Post issued and created the first coupon in 1895. In order to promote his Grape
Nuts Flakes, he put a 1 penny coupon on the package. The purpose was to
encourage consumers to buy the product, cut out the coupon, and redeem it on
another box of cereal.
I
doubt that he could ever imagine that his idea would start the single best promotional
tool in the industry. Today over 350 billion coupons are issued annually. Savvy
consumers save 50% or more on their grocery bill by wisely using coupons.
Here
are some tips about finding coupons. Some of the best sources include
- The Supermarket. Look for packages that include coupons, as
in the case of CW Post. Hang Tags on jars and bottles. Blinking dispensers in
the aisles. Register coupons. Displays featuring products and coupons. Event
and Holiday booklets that include recipes and coupons.
- Sunday inserts. One of the best sources include Sunday
coupon inserts. These come inside your Sunday paper.
- Home mailers. Companies targeting consumers with home
mailers that include coupons and other special offers.
- Magazines. Some magazines, especially woman oriented
ones offer coupons. In most cases the value of the coupons is much more than
the cost of the magazine.
- Doctor's Offices. Coupons abound here. First, check magazines
known to have coupons. Find the displays many contain coupons. For example at
the dentist I found Crest and Colgate coupons. At the Vet check for pet coupons
and the dermatologist always has discounts for creams and lotions.
- Online. Check my coupon site: www.couponqueen.com, on an average day we
have over 150 different selections for free printable coupons.
- E-Newsletters. Sign up for e-newsletters from your favorite
companies, they come chocked full of coupons and promotions. My favorites
include: Kraft, Betty Crocker, Bob Evans, S.C. Johnson, General Mills, Eat
Better America, Arm & Hammer. You can find your own favorites.
- Friends & Relatives. Friends and
Relatives are more than happy to save unused coupons. Trade your unwanted
coupons for those that will increase your savings.
- Trading Bins. Libraries, lunchrooms all offer exchange
opportunities, start one where you work.
There's
no limit to the number of coupons you can find. Be creative, you'll be able to
amass enough to fill your organizer.
