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Coupons have really become a big deal for shoppers all over the world. But do you know the story behind these money-saving wonders? Even if you’re a coupon pro, you might not know that these little money-savers have been around for more than hundred years? Yes, that’s right! From simple handwritten vouchers to fancy barcode systems, coupons have come a long way since their early days. They’ve evolved to make our lives easier and help us save some cash along the way. So, let’s uncover the coupon facts behind coupons.
The Word Originates From The French Language
The French word “couper,” meaning “to cut,” gave birth to the term “coupon.” When it comes to coupons, it refers to the action of cutting out a voucher or certificate for availing discounts or special deals. Initially, coupons were tangible pieces of paper that required cutting from newspapers, magazines, or promotional materials. As time passed, coupon became a widely recognized term encompassing any form of discount or promotional offer that can be redeemed at a store or online.
The First Coupon Was Provided by Coca-Cola
The very first coupon made its debut back in 1887. It was Coca-Cola, the renowned beverage company, that introduced this clever marketing tactic. The coupon they offered allowed customers to enjoy a free glass of their beloved Coca-Cola drink. Little did they know that this simple idea would revolutionize the way we shop. Since then, coupons have become a common sight in the retail world, giving shoppers enticing discounts and special offers that make their purchases even more rewarding.
Many Shoppers Confidently Proclaim They Never Fail to Find a Deal
An impressive 68% of shoppers confidently claim that they never miss out on an opportunity to take advantage of a deal, promotion, or coupon when making their purchases. This significant majority of consumers exhibits a keen awareness of the value of discounts and actively seeks out these money-saving opportunities. Their proactive approach to maximizing savings underscores the importance they place on getting the best possible value for their money.
The Popularity of Online Coupons is Experiencing a Remarkable Surge
It’s hard to ignore the remarkable surge in popularity that online coupons are currently experiencing. Shoppers from all walks of life are jumping on the bandwagon, drawn by the enticing benefits they offer. From groceries and fashion to electronics and travel, more people are embracing online coupons as a reliable way to make their money go further.
There Is Enough Supply of Coupons Available for Everyone
In 2013, American consumers were distributed with an astounding number of coupons for various consumer packaged goods, like food and cleaning products. According to a report by Inmar Analytics, around 329 billion coupons were distributed during that year. That’s an average of more than 2,500 coupons per household! It just goes to show how dedicated manufacturers and retailers were in offering enticing savings to shoppers across the country.
Paper Coupons Are Still Going Strong
Despite the prevalence of digital options, there is still a special place for the old-fashioned charm of paper coupons, even among the younger generation. According to a 2015 survey conducted by CreditCards.com, bargain hunters aged 18 to 24 are twice as likely to embrace the practice of cutting out paper coupons compared to other couponing methods. This preference for tangible coupons highlights the enduring appeal and satisfaction that comes with physically handling and redeeming discounts.
Preferences For Discounts Vary Across Different Regions
RetailMeNot’s research has shed light on the variations in coupon preferences among individuals residing in different regions across the country. According to their findings, coupon users in the Northeast region exhibit a preference for specific percentage-off deals, while Southern states lean towards buy-one-get-one-free (BOGO) offers. These regional distinctions shed light on the diverse couponing preferences that shape the shopping habits of consumers in various parts of the country.
Coupon Expiration Dates Are Gradually Shrinking
In response to coupon fraud concerns, companies have taken steps to mitigate risks by shortening the timeframe in which their coupons remain valid. According to Kantar Media Coupon Facts, the average length of coupon expiration has reduced to slightly over six weeks, and even less for non-food items. High-value coupons, in particular, often come with expiration windows of just one week. By implementing shorter expiration dates, companies aim to discourage scammers from engaging in activities such as selling, sharing, or stealing coupons, thus safeguarding the integrity of their promotional offers.
Coupons Are The Preferred Choice Among Shoppers
In a survey carried out by RetailMeNot and the location analytics company Placed, it was revealed that more than 60% of shoppers have a clear preference for coupons over other types of promotions. This finding highlights the strong appeal and popularity of coupons among more than 10,000 surveyed consumers in 2016.
Holiday Season Is a Prime Time for Coupons
When the holiday rush is in full swing, retailers are well aware that a little extra motivation goes a long way in enticing consumers to make purchases. According to a study by Experian Marketing Services, around 90 percent of retail email campaigns during the 2014 holiday season featured some form of offer. This finding underscores the common practice of retailers showering shoppers with discounts, special promotions, and irresistible incentives to make their holiday shopping experience even more delightful.
More Than a Quarter of Women Find Coupons to be a Hassle
In a survey conducted by ShopSmart magazine in 2014, it was revealed that 28 percent of women find coupons to be bothersome. However, despite this sentiment, a small but significant 15 percent of women consider coupons to be a “necessary evil,”
Branded Products Can be Cheaper Than Store Brands Using Coupons
Contrary to the general belief that store brands are typically cheaper than name brands, The Krazy Coupon Lady suggests that the right coupon can be a game changer, Combining a store promotion with a coupon often results in snagging the lowest price available.
Final Words
Coupon facts have provided us with intriguing insights into the fascinating world of savings and discounts. We have discovered the rich history of coupons, spanning over a century, and witnessed their evolution in the digital era. These revelations have reaffirmed the significance of coupons as an essential component of the shopping experience. Whether it involves traditional coupon clipping or embracing the convenience of digital offers, coupons remain a valuable asset for astute shoppers.