The Ultimate Guide to Manufacturer vs. Store Coupons

Understanding the difference between manufacturer and store coupons is crucial for maximizing your savings. Here’s a breakdown of each type and how to use them together:

Manufacturer Coupons:

• Issued By: The company that produces the product (e.g., Procter & Gamble, General Mills, Unilever).¹
• Redemption: Can be used at any store that accepts coupons, regardless of where you got the coupon.
• Funding: The manufacturer reimburses the store for the value of the coupon.
• Identifying Features:
  • Often state “Manufacturer Coupon” or have similar wording.
  • Usually have a remittance address (where the store sends the coupon for reimbursement).
  • May have a longer expiration date than store coupons.
• Where to Find Them:
  • Sunday newspaper inserts (SmartSource, Save, Procter & Gamble)
  • Printable coupon websites (Coupons.com, [invalid URL removed], Save.com)
  • Manufacturer websites
  • In-store tear pads or blinkie machines (those little boxes that dispense coupons in stores)

Store Coupons:

• Issued By: A specific retailer (e.g., Target, Kroger, Walgreens, CVS).²
• Redemption: Can only be used at the store that issued the coupon.³
• Funding: The store absorbs the cost of the discount.
• Identifying Features:
  • Clearly state the store’s name or logo (e.g., “Target Coupon,” “CVS Coupon,” “Walgreens Coupon”).
  • Do not have a remittance address.
  • May have shorter expiration dates than manufacturer coupons.
• Where to Find Them:
  • Store websites and apps (digital coupons)⁴
  • In-store flyers or weekly ads
  • Store coupon books (often found near the entrance or customer service)
  • Catalina coupons (printed at the register after a purchase)⁵

Key Differences in a Table:

How to Stack Coupons for Maximum Savings:

“Stacking” is the most effective way to use both types of coupons. It means using a manufacturer coupon and a store coupon on the same item.

• The Process:
  1. Find an item you want to buy that has both a manufacturer coupon and a store coupon available.
  2. Present both coupons to the cashier at checkout.
  3. The cashier will typically apply the manufacturer coupon first, and then the store coupon.
• Example:
  • A tube of toothpaste costs $4.
  • You have a manufacturer coupon for $1 off.
  • You also have a store coupon for $0.50 off.
  • By stacking, you save $1.50, bringing the final price down to $2.50.

Important Considerations for Stacking:

• Store Coupon Policies: Each store has its own rules about coupon acceptance and stacking. Some stores may limit stacking or have other restrictions.⁶ It’s crucial to know the policies of the stores you shop at. You can usually find these policies on the store’s website or by asking customer service.
• Coupon Limits: Pay attention to any limits printed on the coupons themselves, such as “one coupon per item,” “limit of four like coupons per household per day,” etc.
• Digital Coupons and Stacking: Many stores allow you to stack digital manufacturer coupons with digital store coupons. This can be very convenient.
• “Competitor Coupons”: Some stores, like Publix, accept competitor coupons.⁷ This is a special type of store coupon that can be used at a different store. Check the store’s policy for details.

By understanding the differences between manufacturer and store coupons and learning how to stack them effectively, you can maximize your savings and get the most out of your couponing efforts.