20 Fun Facts About Coupons You Never Knew
Coupons are more than just a way to save money; they have a fascinating history and interesting quirks that many people don’t know about. Whether you’re a savvy shopper or a casual coupon user, these 20 fun facts about coupons might surprise you!
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The First Coupon Ever
The first coupon was created by Coca-Cola in 1887. The company offered free drink coupons to encourage people to try their soda, which was a new product at the time.
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The Term “Coupon” Has French Origins
The word “coupon” comes from the French word “couper,” which means “to cut.” It’s a fitting origin, considering traditional coupons were cut out of newspapers or magazines.
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Extreme Couponing Became a Movement
The concept of “extreme couponing” gained popularity thanks to TV shows that showcased shoppers saving hundreds of dollars using stacks of coupons. Some people even managed to get items for free or earn store credit.
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Coupons Helped During the Great Depression
During the Great Depression in the 1930s, coupons became a lifeline for many families. Manufacturers used them to attract customers while shoppers relied on them to stretch their budgets.
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Digital Coupons Are on the Rise
In today’s digital age, coupons have gone online. Digital coupons are quickly replacing paper ones, as more people prefer the ease of applying them directly from their phones and computers during checkout.
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The Biggest Coupon Redemption Day
The biggest day for coupon redemption is traditionally during the back-to-school season. Shoppers flock to stores in search of discounts for school supplies, clothing, and electronics.
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Coupons Can Be Tracked
In the age of digital coupons, brands and retailers can track which coupons are redeemed, allowing them to better understand consumer behavior and adjust their marketing strategies.
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Coupons Save Americans Billions Each Year
It’s estimated that coupons save American consumers more than $3 billion annually, with a significant portion of savings coming from digital coupons and cashback offers.
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Coupons Can Be Found in Unexpected Places
Coupons can sometimes be hidden in unexpected places, such as on product packaging, in emails, social media ads, and even in your grocery store’s app. Keep your eyes open for these hidden savings!
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Coupon Fraud Is a Thing
Coupon fraud is a real problem, with criminals creating counterfeit coupons to exploit retailers. Many companies now use sophisticated tracking systems to prevent fraud.
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National Coupon Month
September is celebrated as National Coupon Month in the United States. It’s a time when retailers and brands offer exclusive deals and promotions to encourage coupon usage.
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Coupons Have an Expiry Date
Most coupons come with an expiry date, but did you know some states in the U.S. require manufacturers to honor expired coupons under specific conditions? Check your local laws to see if this applies!
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Mobile Coupons Are the Future
Mobile coupons are growing rapidly. They’re not only convenient but also more eco-friendly than paper coupons, appealing to environmentally conscious shoppers.
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The Biggest Discount Ever Recorded
The largest single discount ever recorded was for a mattress store promotion, offering an incredible 95% off for a limited time!
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Coupons Are Not Just for Grocery Stores
While coupons are often associated with grocery stores, they can be used at a wide variety of stores, including electronics, clothing, travel, and even restaurants!
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Coupons Are Used Worldwide
Coupons aren’t just a Western phenomenon. They’re used in countries around the world, with different cultures employing them in creative ways to attract customers.