Kuponas

Kuponas is a discount voucher issued by retailers or manufacturers that allows the holder to buy goods or services at a reduced price or to receive a discount when the coupon is presented at the point of sale. Coupons may be valid for specific products, brands, or purchase totals, and typically include terms such as expiration dates, minimum purchase requirements, or quantity limits.

The word kuponas comes from the French coupon and is used in Lithuanian to refer to both paper and digital discount vouchers.

Coupons fall into several types. Manufacturer coupons are issued by producers, often redeemable at a range of retailers. Store coupons are issued by retailers and apply to items in their own stores. Digital coupons are delivered online or by mobile apps and often use barcodes, QR codes, or loyalty identifiers. Promo codes and loyalty coupons can be applied online or in-store.

Redemption generally occurs at checkout. The customer presents the coupon or enters its code; the terms may restrict it to a specific product, brand, or minimum purchase, and there may be a limit per customer or per order. Expiration dates and stacking restrictions are common.

Digital transformation has accelerated coupon use. Online platforms distribute coupons via apps, newsletters, or websites; codes and barcodes are scanned or automatically applied through loyalty programs. Some coupons are not stackable and must be used individually.

Coupons influence pricing and consumer behavior, helping retailers move inventory and encourage trial while offering savings to buyers. They can also invite fraud or misrepresentation, and many jurisdictions regulate advertising, expiration terms, and redemption to protect consumers.

See also: coupon, promo code, loyalty program.