[LauraO]

If they hear enough complaints from the public, they might listen and ease up on their coupon restrictions. As you may have read, another user posted the change to the wording on Target's printable coupons. They now say, "Limit, one offer per transaction." I urge all of you AFC'ers to send Target Customer Service an e-mail, letting them know that you will limit your trips or stop shopping at Target altogether! I believe that TOGETHER, we can make a change!

Here is the link to their "Consumer Comment" form:

Target Store Questions : Contact Us : Help : Target

This is the comment that I submitted to Target:

I'd just like to comment on the new wording on the Target online coupons. I noticed that they now say, "Limit one offer per transaction."

I want to let you know that most of the time, your online coupons are the only reason that I shop at Target. What if I want to buy two or three of an item and get the Target coupon discount? Do I now have to go through the trouble of having the cashier ring it up into separate transactions? Restrictions such as this are going to cause more problems for me than it is worth to shop in your store. As it is, I have already cut my Target shopping WAY down because for some reason, your registers no longer accept internet-printed manufacturer coupons and the cashiers refuse to override them. (Half the time, the Target printable coupons won't even scan!) With the economy on a downturn, consumers are looking for ways to save money. Your new policies are going to deter customers from using coupons in your store.
I understand that some people have tried to defraud Target by altering coupons, but there are MANY, MANY consumers who are honest and are just trying to use coupons to feed their families in this difficult economic time.

I used to get the greatest deals at Target using coupons, and it was my favorite place to shop. With all of the restrictions you have put in place, I have had to look elsewhere and have found that I can get items cheaper at my local Food Maxx, and Walgreens stores, who are more coupon-friendly.

Please forward my comments to your corporate customer service department. I hope that you will consider changing your coupon policy.

Thank you for your time.

[Alexdur85]

Awesome letter!

Sounds like a good idea!

I'm going to type a similar letter right now.

[Alexdur85]

How does this sound.. I feel like I should change some of my wording?

This comment is in regards to the new wording on your Target coupons. I've noticed that the wording has changed to "Limit one offer per transaction". Target coupons are one of the many coupons that I use in my local target stores. Sometimes it's the only reason that I continue to shop at Target and is one of the determining factors to spend my money at your store rather than elsewhere. I am displeased to know that I will now have to take more time during my shopping trip to make different transactions and if it gets to be too much of a hassle I may decide to spend my money elsewhere. My time is precious and I will not waste it waiting in line.

Thank you for your time.

Alex

[TJ_2008]

I also sent out an email to Target.

I am wondering if something will come around.

[AngieP]

while your idea is a fine one what I can't seem to understand is that we have shoppers, some of which i know have posted on here, that complain because other shoppers have the ability to clean off shelves while using multiple coupons in one transaction. Target eliminates this issue by changing the language on their coupons to limit purchases to one per transaction hoping to eliminate the problem. This eliminates one problem, while creating a whole new one because customers still aren't happy.

I guess my point is that no matter what Target's coupon policy and/or coupon language is~~it's impossible for them to please all of their shoppers.

[joshmamabear]

Originally Posted by AngieP

while your idea is a fine one what I can't seem to understand is that we have shoppers, some of which i know have posted on here, that complain because other shoppers have the ability to clean off shelves while using multiple coupons in one transaction. Target eliminates this issue by changing the language on their coupons to limit purchases to one per transaction hoping to eliminate the problem. This eliminates one problem, while creating a whole new one because customers still aren't happy.

I guess my point is that no matter what Target's coupon policy and/or coupon language is~~it's impossible for them to please all of their shoppers.

I have to agree and its about time that Target get control of their store coupons to avoid abuse which has been going on for the longest time.

I still remember a while back when people hacked into their coupon generator to change the dates on their store coupons and it was spread on the 'net before the date that Target scheduled to put it out. it was a big mess.

its just a matter of finding other ways to save while getting "some" frees courtesy of the store. To force (intimidate) them to give more than what they're willing to, is like killing the goose that lay the golden eggs.

We may have been spoiled for the longest time getting all we wanted for free and although there have been complaints due to inconsistencies, it came up mostly because some stores allowed some people to clean up shelves if there are freebies just by using the Target store coupon. If there happens to be a mfr coupon that gives overage, we read how it made another big problem since most people were not content with frees now, they also wanted to be paid for buying them. chaos comes about when some people would say how they got paid while others can't even find one item on the shelf.

its about time to get real also and not just think of ourselves. JMO.

[Alexdur85]

I do not mind a limit.. but does it really have to be one? Why not put a limit of 4 per transaction or something similar.

[Mommy2TwoBoys]

I'd think that even those that complain about people clearing off the shelves would also be upset at only getting to buy 1 offer per transaction. I think the change is bad and that if they are allowing you to print more than one coupon, you should be able to use more than one coupon. I'm sending in a complaint as well.

[crackedwillow]

I think changes happen, and instead of just blaming other couponers, people should realize that companies in general are cutting back. As far as the 'new policy', I doubt it will last very long. By the time a new set of printables come out I bet the wording will be changed. I have too, sent an email. I would rather than just cancel their printable program, than to limit it to one, and foster that sort of spirit in store. Regardless of whether people realize it or not, policies like these extend to other coupons... Manufactorer's coupons, other printables, etc....

Cash is King, and I don't think we should be "thankful" to companies, for taking our money....

And yes, I believe many of the same people who complained about "shelf clearers" would complain about the new limit as well....

If Target gets enough complaints about strange numbers of transactions, and annoyed customers, they will change it, if it works for them, then they probably won't....

When a coupon is a printable, that changes the name of the game. I find it rude for couponers to assume that THEY are the only people smart enough to print a coupon, and head to the store for free food and goods... Many more people are open to using Target printables, than would keep and clip Sunday papers... Its really a free-for-all, and not just 'select groups of people'...

[A20SomethingMother]

Originally Posted by AngieP

while your idea is a fine one what I can't seem to understand is that we have shoppers, some of which i know have posted on here, that complain because other shoppers have the ability to clean off shelves while using multiple coupons in one transaction. Target eliminates this issue by changing the language on their coupons to limit purchases to one per transaction hoping to eliminate the problem. This eliminates one problem, while creating a whole new one because customers still aren't happy.

I guess my point is that no matter what Target's coupon policy and/or coupon language is~~it's impossible for them to please all of their shoppers.

I agree with Angie. There are obvious reasons as to why they have the new coupon policy. Quite frankly, I was tired of being seemingly the only one that would grab 2 or 3 of one item, but no one else could. I am tired of the shelves being cleaned out and I am happy about the new coupons.

You should be happy Target accepts coupons. You should be happy Target has their own coupons. You should be happy Target allows you to combine a Target and a manu Q. I know you can never please everyone, but I never thought them protecting themselves AND US as couponers would be seen as a bad thing. I am, frankly, not sorry that the people who go and clean out the shelves at my Target on Sunday morning before I get there can't do it anymore. I think there needs to be limitations.

[A20SomethingMother]

Originally Posted by Mommy2TwoBoys

I'd think that even those that complain about people clearing off the shelves would also be upset at only getting to buy 1 offer per transaction. I think the change is bad and that if they are allowing you to print more than one coupon, you should be able to use more than one coupon. I'm sending in a complaint as well.

I personally don't mind only getting one item per transaction because that's all I need.

Just as a reminder, this conversation can easily get heated...and if it does, it will be moved to CC. Everyone is entitled to their opinions, of course, but I just want to throw the reminder out there. This isn't the first time the coupon policy has been discussed here.

[crackedwillow]

You should be happy Target accepts coupons. You should be happy Target has their own coupons. You should be happy Target allows you to combine a Target and a manu Q.

No. Target should be happy that customers are still willing to enter their stores. The options for consumers are often limitless, and Walmart, often isn't too far away from Target. Walmart has cheaper prices, eliminating coupon use, makes Target less competitive against Walmarts, often rock bottom pricing structures..

Customer should never be "grateful" to a store. Its a mutually beneficial situation. Target, and other stores, despite their image, are NOT charities. They are in business to make money, period..

I myself, am in business for myself, and my family period.

[AngieP]

Funny, I have a Target and Walmart across the street from each other and my Target's prices are almost always cheaper. I guess it's just a demographic thing because I never get the walmart deals that others post on here.

Thanks A20SomethingMother for reminding us that this topic needs to remain friendly. We do not allow personal attacks and if the topic gets too heated with opinions flying it'll be moved to the CC.

[crackedwillow]

I don't see where it is heated?

[A20SomethingMother]

Originally Posted by crackedwillow

No. Target should be happy that customers are still willing to enter their stores. The options for consumers are often limitless, and Walmart, often isn't too far away from Target. Walmart has cheaper prices, eliminating coupon use, makes Target less competitive against Walmarts, often rock bottom pricing structures..

Customer should never be "grateful" to a store. Its a mutually beneficial situation. Target, and other stores, despite their image, are NOT charities. They are in business to make money, period..

I myself, am in business for myself, and my family period.

and I can understand that position. But I personally have never had a good experience at Walmart with coupons. I would rather pay slightly more for better service than deal with the scrutiny I get from Walmart.

Not once have I ever been able to have a check out with coupons at Walmart, nonetheless use more than one of the same manufacturer coupon without the team lead being called over and spending 20 minutes going over my coupons.

My son's school has received over a million dollars in the past 4 years due to red cards and other generous donations. I've never seen Walmart give my son's school a check or have a program where a percentage of the proceeds go to my son's school. So yes, that does make me feel better shopping there, that they give out charitable donations.

They are just trying to protect themselves, period. And yes, it is too bad that too many people are out there and abuse coupons. And yes, there are instances that a transaction at Target doesn't go well, and that their cashiers, GSTL's and store managers need to be re-trained in coupons. But I would rather have a coupon from Target that I could combine with a manu coupon rather than have them get rid of their coupons all together. I feel they are protecting me, the responsible couponer, by doing this. I know I may be in the minority on this one, but if you don't like it, don't shop there. Thats just IMO

[A20SomethingMother]

Originally Posted by crackedwillow

I don't see where it is heated?

No one said it IS heated, just that if it DOES get heated, the thread will be moved. It's just a warning. We've had some pretty heated discussions here in the past that turned personal that we had to move to CC.

[AngieP]

Originally Posted by crackedwillow

I don't see where it is heated?

you're right, it's not heated. Team members just have the ability to recognize topics that may get heated. This just happens to be one of them so we like to throw out a little reminder to keep everybody on the right track.

[Carina]

The thing I am mad about is that the coupon policy does not seem to be consistent. Everytime I go and the coupon beeps the CSM makes up some "new policy" because he doesn't want to deal with me using a coupon to get a good deal.

Since when can't I use a coupon on a clearance item? He claims NO you can not. WTH its been a huge downer and I have not gone to Target in weeks nor do I miss being constantly harassed with fake policies and bad customer service.

[Carina]

I think this is more of a RANT thread because we are tired of taking our money to a store and repeatedly being mistreated by ill trained employees. I think Target management needs to step up and remind everyone that it is the customer (a happy one) that comes to the store, spends money, and keeps the store going as well as them employed.

[AngieP]

Originally Posted by Carina

The thing I am mad about is that the coupon policy does not seem to be consistent. Everytime I go and the coupon beeps the CSM makes up some "new policy" because he doesn't want to deal with me using a coupon to get a good deal.

Since when can't I use a coupon on a clearance item? He claims NO you can not. WTH its been a huge downer and I have not gone to Target in weeks nor do I miss being constantly harassed with fake policies and bad customer service.

You're right and i think that's the most annoying part of the coupon world for all of us couponers. It doesn't seem to matter what chain store it is the store policies change from day to day. There's not much we can do to fix that problem. I just stick with the same stores so i can keep from going insane at the checkout.

[MSMom]

Originally Posted by AngieP

Funny, I have a Target and Walmart across the street from each other and my Target's prices are almost always cheaper. I guess it's just a demographic thing because I never get the walmart deals that others post on here.

My Target is higher than my Walmart; in fact, the only time I buy grocery or pet items from Target is when I have a Target IP and a man q to use together. Otherwise, the Walmart regular price is cheaper.

I agree with a higher limit. I, too, have been in the situation where the entire shelf is wiped out within hours of the store opening, but there are also times when I need two of something and would like to use a coupon for both.

It would be nice if they could find a happy medium. I would think the companies would like to know their customers' opinions on new policies so that they can tweak them if needed.

[Carina]

Here is what I just sent.


For as long as the xxxx store has been open, I have gone and spent a lot of money buying everything my family needs. I used to love shopping at all the Targets in my area but in the last 3 months I have had a bad taste in my mouth because every time I go and use coupons I get a "new coupon" policy comment when a coupon I am trying to use beeps. One time I tried to use a Target coupon as well as a manf coupon to purchase a Vaseline bonus pack. The coupon beeped the cashier Diane (always gives me problems when I use ANY coupon) told me I couldn't use a Target and a manf coupon because it was a value pack. Since when? I asked for her manager, a guy named Russell came and told me that they do NOT take coupons on clearance and that I couldn't use a coupon on clearance.

I tried to use an internet printable printed off of Coupons.com and was told that they where fake and that they would not take them. What???

Since that day I have refused to step foot in your Target store. There seems to be NO consistency when it comes to coupons/usage and the the employees that seemed to be very ILL trained.

May I suggest a training class and if you no longer take IP's I would like to see a huge sign in front of the registers to state that. I don't like surprises!!

I have a hard time wanting to go back to your store. I have been taking my money elsewhere because there is a huge factor in why I no longer shop at Target that is that customer service has fallen way down. I would weed out the employees that don't want to work there because I refuse to be treated badly!

[A20SomethingMother]

Just a little thing: if you've been told that coupons.com and/or smartsource.com coupons are fake, write into both companies requesting contact information that these store managers can call to get stuff verified.

when it comes to coupon training, it's best that you contact the district office. Just write in and ask for the DSM's contact information.

[Alexdur85]

I think everyone has a great point. So I've thanked everyone for their opinion.

[Cheri]

Points well taken on both sides of the discussion, thanks everyone for posting.