I just received this video clip from HTSFF member Mary Jo
http://losangeles.cbslocal.com/video/6883103-ralphs-replaces-coupons-with-lower-prices-all-around/
This story recently aired about the end of double coupons at Ralph’s.
The store has decided to lower prices and stop doubling coupons. JC Penney recently started the Fair Share program where they stated they aren’t using coupons any more. I understand that in this economy the stores need to have competitive pricing and they should. What I don’t understand is why they would try and take away or change coupon policy’s not in favor of couponers when coupons are as big as they ever have been. This new change most likely will get more non coupon shoppers in the the door for the lower prices and couponers will still be able to use their coupons but they definitely are taking the fun out of the game. If they really wanted to be competitive why not lower prices and still accept double coupons. Doing so would please all clients. The more customers thru the door the more sales thru the registers.
Imagine for a minute if Market Basket the lowest price store in the North East doubled coupons. Market Basket is already the busiest store on any given day because of their low pricing if they doubled coupons they would eliminate all competition completely. Shaw’s and Stop & Shop would become crushed by them. They would most likely put the competition out of business or make them step up and do the same. Not that we want stores to go out of business and for people to loose their jobs. We just want better deals and more of them. In the end the store with the everyday low prices and double coupons would be the king. If Ralph’s really wants to be competitive then they really need to rethink their strategy. The first store to lower prices and double coupons will win in the end. The lines however will be a nightmare. as bad as I want Market Basket to double coupons the thought of what the lines would be like if they did is pretty scary!
What do you think?
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