coupons

A coupon is a voucher or code that entitles a consumer to a discount, rebate, or other saving on a purchase. Coupons are issued by manufacturers, retailers, or both, and can be redeemed at participating physical stores or online. They are used to promote products, encourage trial, and drive customer loyalty.

Coupons come in several forms. Paper coupons are distributed through newspapers, magazines, mailers, or in-store handouts. Digital coupons are delivered via manufacturer or retailer websites, mobile apps, or loyalty programs, sometimes requiring scanning a barcode or entering a code at checkout. Store coupons are issued directly by retailers and may be stackable with manufacturer offers under certain conditions. Some coupons provide a fixed dollar or percentage discount, while others offer rebates after purchase.

Key terms govern coupon use. Common restrictions include expiration dates, minimum purchase amounts, product eligibility, and limits on how many coupons may be used per transaction or per household. Redemption methods vary by channel, with in-store redemptions typically requiring a barcode or presenting a digital coupon at checkout, and online redemptions often entering a promo code during checkout.

History and economics. The practice dates to the late 19th century, with early promotions such as Coca-Cola distributing free-drink coupons in 1887. Couponing expanded through newspapers and mail catalogs and later migrated to digital platforms and mobile apps. Coupons influence consumer behavior by enabling price discrimination and encouraging trial, while potentially affecting retailer margins and promotional strategy. Regulatory oversight by agencies such as the Federal Trade Commission governs truth-in-advertising and fraud prevention in coupon programs.