Retailers often use coupons as a marketing tool to attract customers and boost sales, but savvy shoppers know there’s more to these discounts than meets the eye. In fact, there are insider tricks and lesser-known strategies that retailers prefer to keep under wraps. If you’re ready to unlock the full potential of coupons, here are five secrets retailers don’t want you to know.
1. Coupons Are Built Into Retail Pricing
Retailers often set their prices with the assumption that some customers will use coupons. This means that the “sale price” might not always be as generous as it appears. By using coupons in combination with sales, savvy shoppers can get closer to the real bargain. Always compare prices across different retailers to ensure you’re getting the best deal, even with a coupon.
For example, some retailers might offer a 20% off coupon while marking up prices slightly during a sale. Checking the item’s price history can reveal whether the deal is truly worth it.
2. Retailers Use Coupons to Influence Your Spending
Coupons are designed to encourage you to spend more, not less. For example, many coupons have a minimum purchase requirement, such as “$10 off when you spend $50.” This tactic entices customers to add extra items to their cart just to reach the threshold, even if they didn’t plan to buy them in the first place.
To avoid falling into this trap, focus only on items you need and calculate whether meeting the spending threshold is worth the discount.
3. Exclusive Coupons Are Hidden in Loyalty Programs
Retailers often reserve their best coupons for loyalty program members. These programs are free to join and offer access to perks like bonus discounts, members-only sales, and early access to promotions. What many shoppers don’t realize is that loyalty programs often provide stackable coupons, allowing you to combine them with manufacturer coupons for maximum savings.
Sign up for these programs and take advantage of the exclusive deals that come with them. Some retailers even offer sign-up bonuses, such as a $10 off coupon just for joining.
4. Timing Your Coupon Use Is Key
The timing of your coupon use can significantly impact the savings you get. Retailers often run cyclical sales, such as end-of-season clearances or holiday promotions, which coincide with new coupon releases. Using your coupons during these peak sales periods can result in double or even triple the savings.
For example, a 30% off coupon during an end-of-season clearance sale can lead to massive discounts. Pairing this with cashback offers or loyalty rewards makes the deal even sweeter.
5. Some Coupons Are Not Widely Advertised
While many coupons are publicly available, the best ones are often hidden. Retailers send exclusive codes to email subscribers, social media followers, or app users. They may also include coupons in product packaging or receipts. These “hidden” coupons are designed to reward loyalty and encourage repeat purchases.
To access these offers, sign up for newsletters, follow your favorite retailers on social media, and always check your receipts for extra savings opportunities. Additionally, use platforms like LatestDealCodes to uncover deals that aren’t advertised on the retailer’s main site.