I've heard now from lots of you about the horrible experiences you've had shopping at Target. From them not taking a Target coupon and a manufacturer coupon together on one item... to them not adjusting the coupon down to the value of the item. I've also heard how rude some of the cashiers have been.I want you all to know you are doing nothing WRONG! You are doing quite the opposite! Taking charge of your financial situation, saving money for the important things in life, teaching your kids the value of $1 and the list goes on. My point is that I hope you all don't let one grumpy cashier or manager get you down because trust me there will be lots of them.
When you are checking out with a so called crabby pants. Oh and let me stop there and say that I'm using this name, so we can make this humorous. When you turn a horrible situation into a funny one... well, doesn't it always make you feel better. Whenever I have one of those frustrating and very aggravating moments while checking out I always, always take a deep breath and say to myself- is there a point in getting angry? Will it do anything for me? I then calm down and always find something funny in the moment.
Now back to what I was saying. When I checkout and start having issues I first always try to explain why I can use these coupons. Sometimes just explaining what exactly I'm doing will remedy the issue. You have to remember that a lot of these cashiers don't know anything about coupons and are just confused about the whole process.
If that doesn't work your next step is to ask for the manager. I always try to be as nice and polite as possibly. The manager may agree with the cashier and that's when you pull out the stores coupon policy (if you have one with you). Sometimes, though, this won't do the trick.
If those steps above don't work, then you have 2 more options. Call corporate while in the store. I know, I know, it's a little intimating doing this, but it sure feels good! Or you can call corporate when you get home.
I posted a few months ago about how I called corporate while shopping at CVS! Here is a quick recap of what happened:
The manager checked me out at CVS. While scanning my coupons he stopped and let me know that I would not be able to use my L'Oreal coupons since the items being purchased were on clearance. I looked a little puzzled and said this must be a new coupon policy. There was no one behind me, so I asked nicely if he could hold my purchases for a second. He looked confused, but said yes. I got my cell phone out and called CVS corporate- 1-800-746-7287 (I have their number programmed in my phone). I asked if their coupon policy had changed in regards to clearance items and explained that I was in CVS and was told that I couldn't use a manufacturer coupon on a clearance item. The lady on the phone told me that was wrong and I could, so the manager ended up speaking to her and letting me use my coupons. I walked out feeling like such an empowered consumer... maybe even a bit like a coupon diva too!:)
The main reason for this post was regarding Target and I'm veering off the subject... sorry about that! Anyway, Tori emailed me yesterday about the frustrations she's had with Target. What I loved about what she wrote was the ending!
Here is what she said:
Hi Collin, I just wanted to let you know what happened today when I went to target, after the terrible experience I emailed you about last week. After reading your email, I decided to call Target Corporate. Of course they were of no help, so I sent a reply email to the email they sent me (the generic sorry for your trouble email). And I told them, that I still had not received any kind of response that would make me want to go back into that store again. And I said that I wanted a personal individual response that a real person typed, not another generic response. And this is what I received back:
Thank you for your additional email. We're sorry you didn't receive the type of service you've come to expect at Target when checking out last week. We know the importance of having well-trained team members. And I know it can be frustrating if you receive inconsistent information about our services. I've contacted store leadership and they will go over training information with our front end team members about your concern.Thanks for helping us make Target even better.
Sincerely,
Mary
Target Guest Relations
http://www.target.com/
So, on Tuesday, I wasn't in the mood to deal with going back to that same target (which is only 3 miles from my house), so I ended up going way across town to the Super Target, where I had a fantastic experience, no problems whatsoever. But it was so far away. So today, I said you know what, that is a bunch of BS, I am going to go back to that store and stand up for myself. I had a cart full of free or nearly free items, and I was ready for a battle if they didn't take my coupons. When I got to the register the cashier started to give me a hard time and she called the manager over (the same one who had given me such a hard time last week). And I said I was here last week and I had a ton of problems with the coupons and I told her that I contacted Corporate and they said I should be able to do it. And she said yes, I know they called me and told me to take your coupons. So she told the cashier to override anything that beeped and for her to take all the coupons I had without a question.
Yay for me !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I am so happy. Finally some recognition that what we are doing is ok and that they are wrong and don't know what they are doing. I wanted to post a note on the blog, but as you can see, I don't know how to keep things short and sweet. But feel free if you want to mention it on the blog that the corporate site actually backed me up on this one. Score one for all the couponers out there!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I absolutely love receiving these kinds of emails! I actually get chills just reading them! Lets all try and stick up for what we're doing! Like I've said a zillion times we're doing nothing WRONG!:)
For more Target Deals and Target Coupons visit the new Hip2Save.com
117 comments:
I wish I could be that strong. I tried to use the Banana boat coupons two different times last week, and both times I was told by MANAGERS that the coupon could not be adjusted down "because it was a manufactures coupon", what ever that means, and also that "you cannot get a free item unless the coupon says FREE ITEM" The second time I had the coupon policy with me, but I was so upset that I knew I would only get bitchy, so I didnt say anything!! I wish I could just do it with a smile, but I am so afraid Ill be really mean (I will), that I just shut down. I guess the next step it to write Target Corprate like your other reader did. Wish me luck!
I had a similar experience at Wal-mart. So I also sent an email to corportate office, I used to work at Wal-mart so I know how you are suppose to be treated! I ended up getting a $30 gift card just for all my troubles, I was so happy, I did something about that rude cashier that wouldn't take my coupon....
I used coupons at target last evening for the first time ever and I was able to use the Manufac. and target coupons (printed in black and white ink) twice on two seperate 100 calorie packs. I was very surprised and happy after reading issues people have had. The only person to reject my printed coupons to date was one Walmart, but another one 3 miles away happily took them (even the manager at this one refused to take them). I made sure to email corporate. Walmart flatlined this quarter so they are looking to keep every customer they can. target is wayyy down in sales so I am shocked they are not working harder to rectify this error.
Hi Hip,
Couple weeks ago I had the same problem at Target. The cashier would not take their on copupon for the Chex ($1.00) and the band-aid coupon ($ 1.00) because the items cost 0.97 each and the coupons were 1.00. The manager was called and she refused to mark down the coupons. Also, in the band-aid she kept saying that travel size and trail size were the same. My husband and I left empty handed and call the corporate from the parking lot. After, about 30 minute we went back inside to the guest relations and were allowed to have the products.
We spent about 45 minutes to have about $ 10 dollar in free products but we thought it would help others and us next time.
I was having problems using coupons at target also. When my coupons wouldn't scan, the cashier told me some story about not having a "contract" with the manufacturer. Some of them were Target coupons. I e-mailed them, let them know what my issues were, and told them that I also would like a reponse from a "real person" well, after reading Tori's e-mail, my e-mail was identical to what her's said. I even wrote back and asked for answers to specific questions, and they sent me another form letter that did not even mention my questions. Needless to say, I think I'm about done with Target. I don't have time for the hassels I go through every time I shop there.
I am borderline scared to use a target plus manufacture coupon at my Target. There have been times when they do not want to even take my Target coupons that I have printed at the store. They have told me it is up to their discretion.
i had a terrible experience at target as well. i called corparte and they were nice. they told me that they would be sending a letter of apology. im secretly hoping there will be a giftcard or coupon in there. but now i understnad coupons more so i will stand my ground. i didnt have trouble with the banana boat coupon. she took that one fine. the manager and cashier were SO MEAN.
I used to work at Walmart also for 3 years. 1 year as a cashier, and 2 years as a accounting office member. I do know they have mandatory cashier meetings that I went to. I do NOT ever remember them discussing the use of coupons and what exactly to look for and what each meaning is (one per purchase, one per transaction etc.)
I, did not really know about the use of coupons, but I never questioned the customer. I looked for a expiration date, and scanned it. The register was programmed to beep only if the item was NOT purchased so it did most of the work for me. However it did beep for items that they did purchase and I didn't know why. I simply found the item and double checked for product, size etc. and hand keyed the coupon in. There is NO harm in that.
Also, working in the accounting office, I know exactly how the paperwork works and what we did. Our "old way" was to have a cashier on one register all day...sometimes 2. At a pull (drop register bag) we would have all the coupons they received. If there was an extreme amount of one item, we simply went into the computer (smart system for registers) and actually looked through all their transactions till we found one that had a lot of the same coupon. We checked the wording on the coupon..say one per purchase. If the coupons matched same amount of items..no problem what so ever. If the coupon said one per transaction and they had say 10 or so on that transaction...we did have to flag them, and management would talk to that cashier.
I really think that the stores need to have a crash course for their whole store team by a person who knows coupons so that they are all on the same page and understand how it all works. That way your not getting a different answer from different employees who have no idea what to do, they just fear getting in trouble so their best answer for you if your item seems "free" is ....You can't do that.
Oh, I forgot to add, that the other night I went to Wal-mart and I used 44 coupons, the register beeped and a csm had to come over and flick her key, but they had no problem letting me use as many coupons as I wanted to. They were really nice to me, even the cashier didn't have a problem scanning all of them and several she had to look up the amount to put on the coupon for the free item! I live in Kansas and so far so good. I am saving lots of money....
Well ladies, i just email Target corprate,I hope ALL of you do too!!! And thanks too all of you who have called and written in the past to try and make it easier for the rest of us!
My only problems have been issues with the coupons scanning, mostly related to the target coupons. The cashiers have been nazis about making sure I have the exact correct items for the coupon, but really that's just them doing their job. It takes time, and the line builds up behind me but that's how it goes when every item you have has two coupons that can barely scan!
I have not had a problem at my Target...but just a hint...I tend to pick my cashier. I don't go in the line if some young kid is checking out because they clearly don't understand the value of a dollar (usually) and are not helpful, they like to play the "dumb" card. I look for a woman who is my age (mid 30's) or older. They are usually the ones who are impressed with my savings and more willing to help out!
I don't know why they have to look at every item you have a coupon for, unless they DON'T know what they are doing or their register does not recognize if item does not match.
Our Walmart used to take every coupon you gave them, even if you didn't buy the item. If the customer had a large amount of items and the cashier tries to scan as fast as she can..they never noticed you never even bought the item.
Our new way matches coupon to the item..beeps only if it was not purchased..or wrong item..even wrong size.
Does Target not have an updated system? Seems like a waste of time for the customer to sit there and watch the cashier go through her already bagged items.
I haven't even used coupons at Target yet...but now I'm too scared to even try! lol
247 Mom,
Yea, I try that too, but it seems like EVERY coupon at my Target beeps, and every cashier is clueless. I am glad some of you have "good" Targets :)
I have the most problems at target using the target coupons! You would think they could code those correctly, but they never get it right! I was brave one time because I had called corporate the day before when they rejected my coupons. I made the manager call corporate right from the register. It took almost 20 mins but I felt so empowered! (And it was only $1 off!) I will say that target has become one of my least favorite places because of how they treat couponers. I've walked out of the store and left a cart full of items at the register when they refused to accept my coupons once.
I would say definately call corporate when you have these issues, maybe eventually they'll learn to code their coupons properly.
But I think I need to start carrying around the coupon policy just in case...
Not only are stores negatively impacting their same store sales, especially now, and that has a great impact on their stock price but they are also doing a great diservice to the manufacturer who is trying in a very difficult economy to increase sales and market share. Maybe we ought to be complaining to the stockholders of these companies.
I'm so sorry you guys have trouble. My closest Target is 20 minutes away and is just a little Target but they are wonderful about coupons. They will take as many Target coupons as I want to use and will pair them with manufactuerer coupons. They don't mark down the amounts on the coupons either. I bought a bunch of the $0.99 chex mix and Quaker bites and they just took the $1 Target coupon each time. They are happy to take recently expired coupons and coupons over the amount of the product price. The selection is limited because it's a small store but last week I got $147 in merchandise for $18. Yay Target.
I wish the larger retailers would have a coupon lane, like the express lane but for couponers, with a trained coupon-knowledgeable cashier and a clearly marked notice at the lane so that someone in a hurry will know that customers checking out in that lane are using coupons and will take a little longer to check out. They would know to choose another lane and those of us with coupons could be relieved of the hassle of what kind of cashier we're going to get combined with the stress of holding up the line.
Lela,
What a great idea!!!! Now you just need to convince all the stores! :)
What is Target's corporate #?
I just have to add something that is WORKING for me with the Target coupons. I print them on my normal white printer paper, I have heard if you print them on cardstock or heavier paper then it is helpful. I was having problems with a couple of the coupons not scanning, but I was insistant that cashier tried different ways of scanning. It just didn't make sense to me that some would scan and not others. So we found that the best way was to lay the coupon flat on the counter, hold the sides flat while the cashier scanned it with his gun. He started out close to the coupon and then lifted it up farther away and IT SCANNED EVERY TIME! Hopes this can help someone!! I'm SAVING so much with these stacked coupons!! I LOVE THEM!
leah:
Target: 1-800-440-0680
thats the number i called.
Lela, that is a GREAT idea! How can we get that idea out to the stores?
I usually pick a dumb kid at target b/c I know they dont care. Two times this week I got 5 100 calorie paks for free in only one transaction. Last week with the fiber one bars and the free gift card they actually paid me .12 to take the items.
Hip2Save, I emailed you a Target question I think yesterday, just wanted to make sure you got it :o) I sent it to the email on your blogger profile.
Thanks!
I'm so glad people are taking a stand!!
I was so scared to go to target with all the hassle they seem to give people. I got over that tho cuz hey had great prices on items that i had coupons for that were about to expire. I SOOOOO lucked out when I picked a register. I got a little scared tho, even tho I knew I wasnt doing anything wrong, b/c the supervisor came over and then a manager came over and they were all standing there talking to the cashier. When I handed over my coupons, the supervisor laughed and she said "Wow, she shops like you do" to the cashier. I thought "oh it doesnt get any better than this!" If for some reason a coupon didnt scan, my cashier rescanned a coupon for the same value. I spent $8 on $47 worth of stuff.
Also, my prices were all higher than what blogs say, I think prices vary by region. That was stinky but I'm so grateful to my knowledgable cashier!
Oh yeah, and also when I got up to the register, I told the cashier that I have coupons and asked if I needed to break up the transactions for her since the coupons say "limit 1 per transaction." She said "No, b/c when we come through the register and have coupons we dont have to so I dont make my customers."
I think I'll call target today and let them know how she did such a great job. Score 1 for Target. : ) So that makes it like 3-439857345 right? ; )
I am so glad to see you are telling your readers the same thing I am telling mine. I have had some real horror stories come in as comments in the last week. It makes me really sad for Targeteers to be treated with such disrespect.
I have added one other suggestion for those that are done so completely wrong. Go to PlanetFeedback.com and post your complaint if it is not dealt with satisfactorily.
I sort of think these bad managers are already under the gun for poor store performance and do not understand A) the corporate guidlines in regards to coupons B) Don't care and think they are bad and are clueless that they can be processed for reimbursement PLUS 8 cents each for handling. C) on a power trip and love to say no D) hate women since we are generally the couponers E) blatantly a jerk to start with.
They are threatening to ban customers from the stores, calling asset protection, and worse. I am guessing they have a camera on the checkout when they call asset protection.
Whip out the cell phones. Take pictures of the offenders and email it to corporate. If your cell phone records audio, record them.
I'm really sick of it and it doesn't even happen to me. I have a wonderful store -- thankfully. They all but dance in the aisle at my massive savings.
Also suggest that if you have a good store to send a compliment to home office and tell them how much you appreciate a great store after the horror stories we read.
I hope Target will train, re-train and follow up with their training and make it more consistent for all of us.
Ginger
attentiontargetshoppers.com
I work at Target, and sometimes I am up there cashiering. I will push the coupon through if it is for the correct Item & yes, we can adjust them down. Please don't get nasty with us or report us if you don't get your way. We are trying to do our jobs with out getting corrective action. Yes, we get in trouble if we push the coupons through or don't adjust them down. THESE ARE OUR JOBS!
This is gonna be long:
Yeah, I have had some TERRIBLE experiences with Target. I came in 1 time and one of my coupons wouldn't scan. The cashier "assumed" I was trying to fraud them and said she couldn't scan it. And I said "well, I've done this several times before." So she called I guess the "lead" over, and she began to tell me her interpretation of why the coupon wouldn't work. Again, I said that she was wrong (but in a nice way). I told them that I understand you but I've done this several times before, and if I'm doing something wrong at least tell me or give me an explanation for why I can't use these coupons. So the "lead" rolled her eyes at me and got so mad, she called a manager to the checkout, and the manager made some story up as to why I couldn't use the coupon. All the meanwhile I'm thinking to myself "YOU HAVE NO IDEA WHAT YOU ARE TALKING ABOUT." Now I don't want to burn any bridges, I don't want to be rude, I don't want to do anything fraudulent, but ALL 3 different people told me 3 different stories on why the coupon wouldn't scan.
It wasn't even 1 week earlier that I bought a $.99 item and used a $1.00 coupon and the cashier adjusted the price down. I still don't know if this is a store decision because I thought that the corporate policies were that you could adjust the price of the coupon down.
Anyways, to make things worse, I was so angry and frustrated at that Target, but that have had some excellent deals so I keep going back. EVERY TIME I walk into that store, they have me pegged. When I go to check out, my cashier gets a phone call, and then the cashier says something about me and my coupons ex."Yes she's got coupons."
I know I'm doing everything right, but in some crazy sense, I feel like I'm shoplifting or stealing money just because they have me pegged when I walk in the door. It's ridiculous. I even called the manager and explained to her that I just want to be honest and do things right, so could you please tell me why I couldn't use that coupon. She said she would find out, took my # and call me back...and of course she never did.
Stores are dumb for treating their best customers like that. By rejecting coupons and treating couponers like poo-poo, they are turning away business and their store #s will not be so hot.
Anyways, I thought I would just tell you that I'm under Target's radar because I use coupons :) They obviously don't want me there.
Thanks for the great story! I have had several readers email me this week about Target not adjusting the coupons down even when they had a letter from corporate stating that they needed to be adjusted down.
I have had the same problems, but I feel bad when it's new couponers and they are getting discouraged. I think that stores don't understand that most of us are honest people just trying to do what's best for our families. It can be frustrating when you are made to feel like you are doing something wrong, but know that you are right.
Thanks for bringing this to our attention, I am glad my readers aren't the only ones having problems. Hopefully together we can all do something!
Oh this so sounds like the Target trip I had this week. The cashier was rude and told me I COULD NOT use $1 coupons for the 99 cent items that I was trying to purchase. She called the manager over. I showed the manager the coupon policy I had printed from your blog (THANK YOU SO MUCH, by the way for posting it). The manager told me that my copy of the coupon policy was bogus and she was marching over to the Target computers to see what the "Real" coupon policy was. My cashier continued to scan my other coupons while she waited on the manager to return with the "real" coupon policy. I watched as the manager picked up one of the red Target phones and called my cashier. Surprise, surprise. The manager told the cashier to scan my coupons for the 99 cent items. However, the manager NEVER walked back over to apologize for her rude behavior, neither did my cashier. I never go to Target without the coupon policy in my hand.
Thank you for educating couponers like me who would otherwise get walked over by cashiers and mangers who don't know the coupon policies for the stores in which they work. Knowledge is power. And in this case knowledge equals dollars in my pocket.
Thanks again,
Tasha
Does anyone know how many Target coupons per item you can use. For example, if I buy 3 Bliss candybars, can I use 3 Target $1 coupons in the same transaction?
Thanks,
OK, so I called the Target store and talked to a store manager, and sure enough he said they CAN adjust the coupon down. He apologized for all the trouble I've had at his store.
He said if I had another problem to ask for the LOD (Leader on Duty).
I wrote about my conversation with him on my blog www.metroplexsavers.blogspot.com
I was at target on thursday, They wouldn't take the huggies for the wipes (not bath and body). no on the bliss, no on the banana boat leader even offered to pick me up the more expensive size. How nice. I divided my order and went thru twice. Both gave me problems and they are so annoyed when you don't want the item. One female, one male. I have one more option. The last 3 times were in the morning. Maybe they have their least experienced then. Per someone on a previous blog, I'm going to go evening close to closing.
Can someone tell me where to find the joint juice?
Hip2Save, our rite-aid ad starts on Friday. Thank you for the alaway Q. There is a peelie on the wound wash, and the right guard aerosol has a $2Q inside the box.I went thru twice and had total $24 mm.
Funny that I read this today... I was at Target today, and had an awful experience, yet again. Every time I go I have problems, and I've tried 4 different Targets in my area! Toady I had problems with a manufacturer coupon. I tried to buy 2 packages of Oscar Mayer Hot Dogs, and I combined a Target coupon with a Manufacturer coupon. But they refused my Manufacturer coupon because the item I purchased was not "the EXACT same item that was in the PICTURE! Though the wording said Save $1.00 ANY 2 Oscar Mayer Franks. ANY TWO! But the cashier AND a manager both said, NOPE YOU CAN ONLY PURCHASE WHAT IS PICTURED IN THE COUPON! That is the stupidest thing I've ever heard! It wasn't even a Target coupon I had the problem with but a manufacturer coupon!
I just came back from Target and was looking at my receipt. On Monday (5/11) I bought Crystal light for $2.99 before coupons. I bought more today (5/16) and now the price is $3.99 before coupons. Does anyone know if there was like a 3 day sale or something last week, or if they just changed the price. I was at the same store both times.
I've had a similar experience at my local Target. I live in a pretty small town so we only have 1 Target that just openned within the last year...which I was so happy about. Earlier this year I started getting into coupons alot and had a few different experiences at Target. I often shop with my sister and/or BF and all 3 of us got the same treatment. So, the next day my BF called me to tell me in detail what happened and that was the last straw for me. I called the store manager, he apologized and assured me it wouldn't happen again. Well...it did. So, my sister went back and they basically said she was stealing products buy using internet coupons. OMG...she was so upset got home and told her hubby who then got on the phone with corp. we have since not gone back as much but every time I do go there I get the look like oh no here she comes...I'm hard to miss with my huge coupon 3 ring binder!!! But I don't let it bother me...I know I'm not doing anything wrong and like you said Im just taking advantage of what is available to me as a consumer to save some extra money for my one income family.
Anon: example: Bliss listed at $2.99.Once they will auto take off the $1 target Q and list at $1.99 another time list at $2.99 and then take off target Q and manu Q. At first I thought they didn't take off both Q's. hth
I am a huge coupon user, but I also have family that work at Target.
This is the best way to get results that help everyone...
If you are coupon user that feels you are treated unfairly at Target, ask to speak to the "ETL" or the "STL on duty" and if they don't help you ask for the "DTLs" number.
I'll tell you why.
When you go straight to "corporate" to deal with the coupons you are only helping yourself, not the whole. Corporate will just shoot an email with a friendly reminder.
The person you initially are contacting when you email or call "corporate" have no authority over anyone in that store or anyone for that matter at all...It sounds important to announce you are going to "email or call corporate" because you picture some person sitting around in a suit, in a huge office with big windows answering your email or call with great concern...but the truth is, the person you are communicating with is an entry level employee that just got out of college (maybe) that is trained to kiss butt and send reminders. Picture a hungover 23 year old in khakis with an ipod dangling from their hip as they turn to the person next to them saying "Hey, check out this one" :points to your email:
If you tell a STL or ETL at the store you are at, the entire team will get firm personalized direction from the STL or the DTL and it's more likely to be followed up with because the DTLs visit the stores very often.
The ETLs, STLS, and DTLs are paid good money to deals with these issues and take things more seriously then "corporate".
And, if the STL or DTL is riding that person, chances are it won't happen again at that store. The "ETLs" will have a team huddle and everyone gets warned. When you contact corporate you are tellinh on the STL of the store who may be very willing to help you, not the employee that might of known better, but acted wrongly anyhow.
If you ask for the "manager" you'll get the team leader who might be still in HS...
"Managers" are not ETLs or STLs - they are the executives at the store who you rarely see on the floor. Ask to speak directly to one of those people and you'll get better results for everyone.
Hope this helps clear things up...
what does the ETL, STL, and DTL stand for?
So what do those initials mean - ETL, STL, DTL? I'd hate to throw around initials when I don't know what I'm talking about. I sure enough know how to ask for a STORE manager, though (which sounds like what you were saying).
I went to Target yesterday and actually had to tell the cashier how to input my coupons when they wouldn't scan.
The lady behind me asked where I get all my coupons and of course I said "Hip2Save". The cashier then asked, "What was the name of that website?", and she wrote it down.
I had the same bad experience as many of you today. I just e-mailed corporate spurred on by the discussion on this page and blogged about my bad experience. There is no excuse for treating good customers like they are criminals for using perfectly legitimate coupons. I will take my coupons elsewhere if this continues.
Is this a new problem with target?
I had a problem tonight with target taking their own $.75 of target brand cleaning product coupon. The manager said it had to be the item pictured. I returned the three sponges that ring up on the receipt as cleaning supplies. I also just got done e-mailing corporate because I have a target visa that I use regularly, and told them I would cancel it if they wouldn't accept their own coupons.
I hope everyone sees this -
Hand the manufacture coupons to the cashier FIRST, then the target coupons! Otherwise the register beeps and the cashiers think you're trying to use 2 coupons for the same product.
Where can you find Target's Corprate policy on coupons?
I had terrible experience at target last week, they wouldn't except my coupons, they were $1 and the items were .99cents when the manager came over she told me they don't adjust coupons and walked away from me, i asked her to call corporate and she refused and kept on walking...well i called when i got home and they sent me a three dollar coupon and said they would call that target, next time i went i had NO problem, but it was a different manager who either didn't care about taking the coupons or knew the store policy....i actually had 40 banana boat coupons and they let me use them all!
Andrea,
I did that, manu first, everyone beeped said did not purchase that item, check the bag, argue whether it matches the coupon. Now hand him the target coupon, he says, "oh your're going to use target coupons too" With a dirty look, processes them with the same method as for manu Q's.
Back to the coupon lane idea, my concern is that it seems retailers don't really want to make it easier for customers to use coupons. I also think they don't want it to appear that they are endorsing coupon use by establishing dedicated lanes or spend extra time training employees. And the thing is...I don't get it. While reports are that consumers across the country are buying less, I (using coupons) buy as much or more than ever. I don't spend as much out of pocket as I used to, but the out of pocket amount doesn't hurt the retailer because they are reimbursed by the manufacturer PLUS a handling fee for every single coupon they accept. It looks like they would LOVE us. If anyone is taking a hit by increased coupon usage, wouldn't it be the manufacturers? I guess my point is that with this economy retailers may begin to rethink their attitude toward customers. I don't shop at Target because I'm not close to one, and frankly after reading this I have no desire to. I shop at Kroger & Walgreens and both of them have been very coupon friendly even though I also shop with my three-ring binder full of coupons, and I let them know how grateful I am. Target (and Wal-Mart) have both reported flat or falling profits and it could very well be because shoppers are migrating to Walgreens, CVS, and grocery chains that are beating their prices with sales AND are coupon friendly. I started couponing last Dec. and I've read many comments on this blog from others who are relatively new to this and I think we on this blog are a representation of the trend. Target needs to wake up because we have the final say when we take our business elsewhere.
Wow, I just looked at my VERY lengthy comment above, sorry, I guess I was on a roll...
Lela, it was a very nice comment and I think you are dead-on right!!!!
Thanks Jackie :)
I like that you stood your grounds. I wish we had the phone numbers to every corporate office; so when we are treated so ugly we can just pick up the phone and make that call. Where can we go to get that phone list?
100 calorie packs last sunday were 1.93 on tuesday they were 2.04 I was able to print a few more today and went back and the packs were 2.79...WTF
Great information for your readers. I have had nothing but pleasant expiriences with the Target stores in Kalamazoo, Mi! I try to go to the same cashier, she knows that I use lots of coupons. I also go at night when it has slowed down, the cashiers tend to be more patient with me!! I've found that Target has really good prices on cereal and when using coupons with it, I get them for .60 to .99 cents a box!!
I'm not sure about DTL and such..but DSL might mean District Team Leader..as the others must be some kind od "team leaders" too.
I can't even remember the name of the "feared ones" at Walmart when I worked there. They were a group of suits that came into the store now and again and EVERYONE needed to be on top of their game. Even management ran like scared chickens when they knew "they" were coming.
They made sure everything was running as it was should. aisles clean and everything in top shape.
I think its them you need to contact. Each store is assigned one for their district locations. Come to think of it..my store went through 2 different store managers and a hand full of assist. managers when employees...usually cashiers reported them for mistreatment. Every store has the number to their district manager. I'd try asking for their contact numbers from management if you run into trouble. Esp if store management is being unhelpful and abusive.
I've also heard of Regional Manaders too. The store should have all these numbers when you request them.
ah..ETL...Executive Team Leader
DTL.. District Team Leader
STL..Store Team Leader
oops typo...district managers. lol
I just went tonight and got the sunscreen & band-aids plus some other clearence deals and the cashier put all my coupons through plus I got the overage. I asked her to adjust the coupon and she said they just had a meeting and if its only a few cents to just push it through because they get an extra .xx on each coupon anyways. HTH
I am so glad that we all have this support group here. I had the worst experience at target the other night. I was at the checkout lane for an hour and a half. I didnt leave the store until 10:45 at night. I too really wish all stores would be nicer to their couponers. We are all human and all make mistakes. I accidentally tried to use an expired coupon tonight. The cashier read it and gave it back and i appologized greatly because i am such a scatterbrain and dont even know what todays date is! I know my walmart has been cracking down on internet coupons because of fraudulant ones. If only there was a universal coupon card that you could load your coupons onto (like some grocery stores have) and we wouldn't have these issues! and i wouldnt have to spend hours clipping :)
We live in Cincinnati and have never had a problem at our Target! They do adjust the amount of the coupon to the amount of the item, but that is reasonable! I agree about going to the younger cashiers because they really don't care, but even the "older" cashiers seem to have been trained properly at our Target.
I have even had some tell me about clearance deals that I had missed!
so i went to target today and i had several axe coupons and tried to use them and they told me only one per person even though it doesnt say that on the coupon and tried to do different transactions but they wouldnt let me. Do they only let you use one per person and one transaction?
I had a bad experience with the Coke deal at CVS and I wrote them. I got an email yesterday telling me that they were wrong for not taking more than one coupon per item I was buying and that they were going to forward this to the District Manager so the employees could be trained properly. Woo Hoo! I can't wait to go in there in the future and pop out my coupons!
On a high note, I must say that I have nothing but much love for my local Walmart. I was there last week with 37...(I counted them) coupons and the girl was wonderful. She didn't see if I bought one of each item. I went back today to grab some of the sweet Kraft coupon deals and I had 30 $1.00 off coupons and the guy was so sweet, smile and very easy on the eyes! The whole time my husband sat with our son right across from us and watched! He did have to comment on how friendly he was and I said I hope I get him every time I come back! Thank you Walmart for hiring cute and friendly cashiers!
FYI...If anyone has those "forbidden" Coke coupons laying around...they have 12 packs for 2.98 and I used them on some items that were not listed on the coupon...again..making small talk and smiling will get us everywhere!
They shouldn't. They should read the coupon and understand what it says. Otherwise..they are probably just thinking you are jipping them even though your not.
If its a real good deal coupon and I don't want to take the chance...grab one with your main purchases. Then..unfortunately..I go put my groceries in the car and come back and grab another one and pay through another checkout and repeat to another and another lol. I ain't losing my items because of no snippy cashier.
That's what I do at my Ralphs. They will only double 1 coupon, so I "make" my husband go thru then I go back in and go through. Sometimes you just have to have it.
I laugh when friends and family say you got it free, it's more work than paying full price just not as much fun. This is my way of winning a lottery and the odds are better.
I had a bad experience at Food Lion about my salsa coupons and just let them expire. I shouldn't have thinking back on it. I had 6 jars of salsa at the checkout and 6 $4 off coupons and the salsa was on sale for $2 and some change and they said that I could not get them for free, that I had to pay the difference. So about $1.50 per salsa. I got so mad that I just put them all back. And, let the coupons expire. It was the WORST EXPERIENCE EVER. And, to top it all off that day, a customer behind me screamed at me to hurry up b/c she didn't have all day (like it was MY FAULT).
There is a reason why coupons have existed for so long. They are a very good and inexpensive and effective way to advertise. So the manufacturer is winning. The stores get reimbursed and if they are treating you right then they win you as a customer. And there is lots of competition. So go in there with a smile and with confidence that you are doing exactly what you are supposed to be doing. As long as you are being honest then you are not doing anything wrong. And to think otherwise is beyond silly.
Thank you for having this post. I am new to the coupon world and this information was very helpful.
My Target would not accept coupons unless the item I was buying was the EXACT one pictured. For example, the Target Hershey's Bliss Candy coupon pictured a bag of candy, but did not specify that I had to buy a bag and not a bar. Same with the Kraft EasyMac. The manager agreed with the cashier and I left frustrated.
I would be really helpful if you could post some kind of policy statement on coupons from stores like CVS, Walgreen, Target etc. so that we can take these into the stores with us and show the managers. Thanks for all of your help and great suggestions!
After a bad experience at Wal-mart, I wrote an email to corporate and then a couple days later got a call from the store manager asking if i could come in and pick up a gift card he wanted to give me for my troubles. I got there and told him i wanted to clarify something, b/c i was told by the supervisor that i couldn't use other store coupons. The manager said that was correct. I pulled out the wal-mart coupon policy where it says they WILL accept other stores coupons and he stuttered all over himself and upped the gift card from the $20 he told me about to $25.
Just a note.....I have very little trouble at Target in Birmingham, AL but at Walmart....it is a nightmare. Their scanners are all coated with I do not know what and if the coupons won't scan they will not take them. I have walked out of there quite a few times with nothing. Then walked over to Target and used the very same coupons. Walgreens and CVS as well, no problem.
We call a bad cashier "coupon nazi"
I am so disgusted with target, Again! The managers, and yes three of them told me the banana boat coupon was only for full size not trial size because the picture did not show the trial size. I even called corporate while i was at the register but they weren't very helpful. The manager told corporate it was the wrong coupon but we all know it wasn't! They did allow be to buy a few, but they thought they were doing me a favor. They told me I was wrong about the coupon and they know their policy. I can't believe they have no clue about coupons, it gets me so frustrated. I have to call corporate again tomorrow to talk to someone else.
Has anyone thought of sending a copy of all of these comments to Target corporate? Just a thought. :0)
Ok so i started out loving target with all these coupon ideas you guys have been giving me. Well the happiness lasted for 3 weeks. Now it's a nightmare. My target will only let me use one target coupon per transaction which is clearly stated on the coupon but I know all of you use more than one at a time and I was too for a while. If the computer takes it whats the problem?
Another experience a few days ago the manager wouldn't let me use my coupons... not even manufacturer Q's.
I called corporate they were no help at all. I brought the target coupon policy... no help. I talked to the store manager person and he sys I have the right to limit the coupons you use so he deleted them from my receipt one by one....
Then told me that I can only use ONE target coupon PER DAY for each different item!!!!
I unfortuantely was buying other without coupons that I really needed or I would have just walked out again.
Let me say that Target sucks!!!! I am cutting up my Target card that I love so much!!! Never getting my business again!!!
Walmart had issues with my $4 Glade coupons but after a little huffing ad puffing by one of the managers she let me use them. I just don't get it.
One of the walgreens by me has mean people working there, the employees and the managers all are mean. Corporate will be getting a call from me... however they do let me use my Q's without too much trouble but I get horrible looks and horrible customer service.
CVS is not doing ECBs here right now so I dont shop there.
I just hate shopping right now. Everything goes great for a while and then BAM-- I'm hated. Boo!!!!!
I am a HUGE couponer and understand both sides of this issue. I work at Target as a manager at the checkout lanes. There is a difference between using coupons, and trying to get something for nothing. If you take advantage of the awesome Target coupon to the point where there is no product left for the rest of the customers, I am afraid Target will eventually stop even having coupons. That is not fair by any means. I have no problem overriding coupons for a reasonable amount of product, but it is VERY frustrating to see someone trying to get an entire cart of items for free. At least buy something else as well. Many business have $ invested in the product and are losing in the end. Target policy is that we can refuse bulk transaction coupons.
Overall, just be smart and reasonable, and you should not have any problems.
I had trouble for the first time at Target today. I was getting the Nexcare bandaids trial size for .97 and they would not take them because the coupon was for $1. After talking to the cashier, a front manager, another manager the first one called over, and calling customer service, I finally got them to price correct the coupons. OMG...what an ordeal. I had over $100 of total groceries too. I also got the.."it does not match the picture" statement but showed them the printing where it describes ANY Nexcare bandage. Customer service explained to them how to do the price correct but the first manager, who was angry, still said they might not do it next time.
The other day when I went to Traget, I had coupons I had printed off from the internet. For some reason they would not scan and they told me they would not take coupons that do not scan anymore, these were Target coupons. They told me I could print them off at their store, but now if I have other coupons I pront and they don't scan I can't use them, I don't understand that.
I also had the same problem at Wal-Mart, but the cashier took them. I use to work for Wal-Mart as a cashier and customer service, so I know they can take any type of coupon, becasue they can hand key them in, becasue they turn in all their coupons at the end of the day. If you have trouble at Wal-Mart go to customer service and if you have trouble there call a manger. I just started this whole coupon thing and I have been having trouble everywhere I go even WalGreens. The lady called up the manger to see if I could use the coupons, becasue I had one for each item, I will be going to a different one where they are much nicer.
Recently I went to the Target store and purchased several items. I used manufacturer and store coupons on some of the items and just store coupons on the remaining items. I presented all of the coupons to the sales associate at the time of purchase and had no problems. Apparently the sales associate felt that the coupons were okay to use. I would later learn that the training or guidance that the associate received clearly differed from the store manager or customer service representative. After completing my purchase but before leaving the store, I realized that I did not use 2 of my coupons. I went to customer service to have them assist me. The young lady at customer service stated that they could accept my coupons because they exceeded the value of the product. I have attached a copy of the coupon policy. When I asked her if I could return the items in question and get my coupons back, she said yes. She went to the register where I had purchased my items and returned with every coupon that I had used. Upon her return to the customer service counter, she immediately starting accusing me of stealing from the store (in front of several other customers as well as my two young children). She went on to say that I needed to return all of the items that I had purchased and at some point I said fine. I asked her to return my coupons and she gave me the manufacturer coupons back. At some point I asked to see the store coupon policy and to speak to a manager. When the acting manager arrived at the customer service, he started with the accusations of fraud. Again all of this was said in earshot of other customers and my kids. He indicated that by using multiple in store coupons items such as the ice cream coupons in one transaction, I had committed fraud. I stated that I had never had any problems before and apologized after the he pointed out the limit one per transaction. After watching the manager and the customer service representative unsuccessfully try to refund my money, I left the store empty handed.
The young lady accused me of stealing. The definition of stealing is as follows: to take something that belongs to somebody else, illegally or without the owner’s permission. The manager accused me of committing fraud and the definition of fraud is as follows: the crime of obtaining money or some other benefit by deliberate deception.
I would like Target to explain how I was stealing or committing fraud.
The following day, my husband contacted the district manager’s office and spoke with a young lady . During this conversation with her, he requested that she would review the store tape from that night and she agreed. She also stated to my husband my treatment was not standard protocol and she apologized. She went on to say that if I did steal and or commit fraud that loss prevention should have intervened. Loss prevention never came in the picture. On the following Monday, June 29th my husband contacted the District manager’s office again to see if she had an opportunity to investigate the matter. She indicated that she had not obtained the store video yet, but that he was on her list of people to call. My husband ended the call and said that he would check back in a few days.
Target clearly does not care about its customers it is just a matter of time before it goes out of business.
With Target or any store, when I first arrive, I go straight to customer service and ask how many coupons I may use. They often ask how many I have, and I answer honestly ... and they often will allow more than their official policy. I often use 10-20 coupons in a single transation, all for free items, and I show them the coupons if they ask.
I know how it feels to be wrong - or new at a job, or new at a process. I try extra hard to be kind and calm. I don't accept any rudeness, but I just firm and kind. Everyone tries harder when you treat them with respect.
I try to be considerate of their limitations and respectful of their wishes. That way, if I am going to have a problem, I know right away. Usually, if one employee has a problem with coupons, another employee on a different shift will be fine.
Like others who have written on this blog I also work at target and I am also a huge fan of coupons and overall good deals. There are many department store in my area and I have shopped them all. Target by far has the most friendly and helpful staff (go ahead and say I am biased :P lol). For those of you who are having trouble it is more than likely caused by others abusing the coupons or down right fraud. I have seen people buy stuff with coupons then return everything to make a HUGE profit. This is fraud. I have also seen people (try) to buy a WHOLE stock of Travel section items. Of Course Target won't let that happen! What ever happened to coupon etiquette? Every Store manager can limit the number of free Items per transaction. At my store it is 10. I think this is more than fair. Target is a business and they do work hard to keep things stocked. Which is hard to do when one person comes in wanting to but 100 of the same item.
For those of you who AREN'T abusing the system keep doing what you do, and you are not doing anything wrong. But PLEASE remember that it is those people who abuse the system that are causing your troubles not Target.
This past weekend I saved $76.25 in coupons and only paid $10.58. The cashier was okay, starting getting a little cranky towards the end of my pile, but did not question my use of store coupons combined with manufacturer coupons. The person who was really cranky was the woman in line behind me. My DH made light of the situation and kept making comments about how he wouldn't question my coupon clipping anymore! After all the time I spend researching deals and putting together my list with coupons, I do not have much patience for the huffing and puffing of other shoppers. Seriously, it is an additional couple minutes of their life. Or are they jealous at the good deal we are getting........
Hello! I am new to Hip2Save and LOVING it!!! Thank you for all of this awesome information!
With that said, I need some perspective on a coupon issue that arose today:
I have had problems with my T using coupons 9 out of 10 times, so before shopping spoke to the Front End Manager, who assured me she would be close by if problems arose. She looked at my Q's and said all looks well (though she wouldn't let me use multiple TQ's for same item). Fine by me- I split it into 2 transactions.
I tried to do the Kashi deal- I bought 2 TLC cookie boxes @2.54 each. I used the $1 off 2 TQ and attempted to use 2 of the $1.50 off any Kashi TLC product. First, I was rejected using a TQ and MQ combined. I whipped out my own personal email to Target Corp. stating the Q policy. Even the Mgr who I spoke to got a lesson here. Then she flat out denied my 2nd MQ ($1.50) because it said on the Q:
"Offer Limited to One Coupon Per Purchase"
In my view, this is one per item, so I should have been able to use both Q's since I had 2 items. She claimed "purchase" meant in one transaction, hence, only let me use 1 MQ and the TQ.
Who is right?
Hi, do you know exactly how they could adjust the value of the coupon? When I use a $1 on a .99 item, they screen showed "Item not found", and only showed two buttons on the right: 1. Accept anyway 2. Decline. When the cashier saw that screen she just said I cannot use the coupon. Which button do they have to press to adjust the value of the coupon down to .99? Thanks for your help.
Okay so I think I am done with Target!
I just sent this email to them:
I am writing to inform you how I am DISGUSTED with your Bloomfield Hills MI store and because of two bad experiences I will no longer be shopping at Target. My first experience was on July 3rd in which an associate rang up all my items and then another person came to say I could not use more than one coupon on certain items even though there was no restriction listed on the coupon. So this was irritating to myself and those behind me as we then had to remove items from what I'd bought. I checked your corporate coupon policy and there was no restriction listed. Yet in still I tried again to visit the store today and was even more disgusted this time. Although I don't think it is appropriate this time I only had one coupon per item I chose to buy to conform to this stores arbitrary rules. This time however I am told they will not accept Internet Printables. How can you offer printable coupons on your website AND in your kiosk and then say people can not use them? So again I told her to take away all the items with IPs and that left me with only three items. I had another item which the coupon exceeded the value so the associate refused to use that. I explained to her that the Target coupon policy is to reduce the value of the coupon and not give overage and she still refused. So I was so digusted I bought nothing and I left. I never want to visit your store again after this. I wasted time gas and energy. If stores are making arbitrary rules or changing their rules every month (I used IPs on July 3rd with no problem) please ask them to post them so no one else uses them. I really did like Target however it is not worth my time to visit since everything changes every time I go there. -Former and currently dissatisfied customer Tashena Lynette Gonzales
I went to one Target and got the line about how they couldn't take coupons to make an item free. I didn't put up a fight because I hadn't read all the other posts and didn't read the coupon policy. So today I went by a different Target armed with the coupon policy. The cashier didn't really say anything but got the front store manager, who was kinda scary. That lady said they couldn't take the coupons because they didn't say that the item could be free. So I told her about the email and she wouldn't even acknowlage it. So I asked if they could hold my items while I called the corporate office. Ben form Guest Services was very nice and said in fact they could take the coupons and asked to speak to the manager. We ended up getting the store manager over and they started arguing on my cell phone about how the policy wasn't in the book or something. Eventually Guest Services call the store manager on the house phone and he relented. I asked him if this were to happen again what to do and he said that the register will probably reject them but all the front managers will know the new policy. I left that Target sweaty and with a HUGE smile on my face. Scary as it may seem I did this with a 2 year old and a 9 month old in the cart. Now I have to go work on the first Target I went to. So excited!
Hello all. I am new to this site but am going to post since I have been a Target tM for almost 5 years, and an avid couponer as well. Here is my take on the whole thing:
If you are not happy with your service, call the guest relations number (readily available at the Giest Service Desk)
Make sure you fully understand the policy and are using the coupon correctly. ONE MQ CAN BE USED WITH ONE TARGET COUPON, per item.
There will sometimes be a survey that prints out on your receipt for a chance to win a $5,000 gift card. There is a spot on the survey to leave comments, and it would be appropriate to leave a comment (good or bad) about your experience. These surveys are very important to the store from a managers perspective and from the District Managers perspective. ALWAYS fill it out.
The coupon-only line is a great idea in theory, but is not really feasible. The people that run the lanes are not just cashiers, they are often pulled from the floor to help on the lanes. Stores are not usually given a budget to allow for a cashier that is soley devoted to couponers. There are cashiers scheduled for the sole purpose of cashiering, but sometimes only one or two.
Be polite. I know it is extremely frustrating to deal with these issues, but I promise you being in the cashiers face or in the face of the GSTL (front end manager) will not get you anywhere. Kill 'em with kindness.
Follow what the coupon says and don't try to get away with a sneaky deal. That only makes it harder for everyone else.
You cannot get an item "free" unless the coupon says it will be free. You will be charged a penny for the item. We do not get reimbursed for the full amount. the cashier should be writing on the coupon how much the discount was (for example... dove coupon for $1.00 off any dove item, if I buy a dove trial size for .97, cashier will ring it as a Man. Discount for .96 and write that on the coupon. I know, few do, but that is policy.
Tell your cashier ahead of time that you have a ton of coupons! We are timed from start to finish, but the cashier can suspend your transaction, and get it going again.That causes less frustration for the cashier to not have the pressure of trying to hurry.
I hope this helps!
Amanda
I had a very positive experience at Target yesterday. Upon walking into the store I cleared coupon policy with those at the service desk: internet coupons (yes), one manuf/one target per item (yes), using something that costs more than the price of the item (no). They will not adjust down the price on an item so you make money or are in the negative. I know this may not be in their policy, but i accepted it. I did my shopping and upon approaching the register informed the cashier I had coupons. He was fine with it and we separated the order by items and did each coupon after each item, which was awesome so that I could check that they went through. He was very pleasant. It took awhile but we had nice conversations and he stated how he doesn't care about coupons, but does care when people scam them, i.e.: using a $25 off 100 toy purchase when they purchased a $5 toy and a $95 of groceries. Basically he gave me the ins and outs. I told him I agree that if everyone uses coupons responsibly we will be allowed to use them. I just wanted to share this pleasant experience. I did have one bad target experience before where THEIR coupons would not scan and they would not type them in. One hint: I generally try to pick cashiers who are around my age (24) and I have never really had a problem. So, I know how you all feel about going into a target and being nervous things won't work, but I just worked with the cashier, was pleasant and he was surprisingly helpful.
In the past I have gotten dirty looks from the cashiers and they have called managers over to confirm the q was ok but on Fri I had the worst experience ever. When I got to my car I cried I was so upset. I had various P&G coupons that were to expire on Fri so I wanted to use them up. I didn't get very much. 4 travel tides, 4 travel olay lotions, 4 head & shoulders trial (these wouldn't have been free only $1/2 q) same w/2 trial pantene. The young girl (I'm 26 and she looked younger) rolled her eyes and gave me a dirty look from the beginning. She said that none of my coupons were scanning and called someone over that lady said coupons over the cost couldn't be used I told her that the corp policy says they can adj the q down, front leader was right near and 1st he agreed w/me. Then he walked by and the snotty cashier said but none of these are scanning and we were told they couldn't be used for trials. He came over and started looking. He waived my tide in my face and said that I (me) know that the coupon means for the full product not the trial and I told him that it said any. He didn't care he said he wouldn't give it to me, like he would be doing me a favor. Then he wouldn't take the pantene or the head and should even though they wouldn't have been free and what really really made me mad was i had a bunch of qs for b1g1 easy mac and she threw them at me. "it won't take it you can only use one per transaction" they said purchase but whatever and only 2 of the q said that (I didn't notice because my printed ones didn't say that) they wouldnt let me use my $1/2 easy mac q either. Then i had a q for a free can of chef michaels dog food that i tore off a previously bought package and they wouldnt take that either. they said only 1 per transaction (it says "one per item purchased" on it) I was only getting 2 cans. Geesh. I am so afraid to go in there they always make me feel like a thief and i always buy the kids toys and take them to get popcorn and icees from the cafe (reward for being patient) Sometimes we go to target just to go to the cafe. So mean.
I went to Target here in Portland Oregon ...The checker told me that she couldn't take my coupons because it said "One coupon per Item" ....So I made a big stink about saying yes thats right and I'm buying 10 Items with 10 coupons ...Your not going to believe what she did ..She called over 2 armed security guards and had them stand there looking at my coupons ..I said what is this all about? She said well if I take your coupons and we don't get paid back for them from the company its a lost pervention for the store ....I said For God sakes give me a manager ...well they didnt have anyone in charge there ...and they would only take 2 of my coupons ..So when I got home I called targets head office and the lady thought I was lying she couldnt believe they would call an Armed guard for coupons ...She put me on hold called the store talked to the manager and he said that was way out of line ...and to sum this all up I'm done with Target .. I will not shop there again ...They made me feel like I was trying to pass a bad check or something....
Yeah, I think I'm done with Target, too (well, maybe I'll keep perusing their Dollar Spot ONLY). They refused to adjust their own TARGET $1.00 off coupons today on items that cost $.99. I am always leaving frustrated and empty handed when I go in that store...no lie. It's a shame b/c I really like their products. I even had the coupon policy with me and they said that the coupon issues vary from store to store.
As a former target employee I know that they take both coupons. I went on Friday and did great. A suggestion I would have is to go to Guest services and ask to talk to store manager or L.O.D. in charge. Show them the letter and ask them why you seem to be having trouble with cashiers not taking them. I understand the frustration. The cashiers really don't get enough training and they are scared. I know that in the morning huddles they constantly bring up coupons. Checking for expiration dates and making sure they are not photo copied. The problem is they don't tell you how to check. So when you get someone with a lot of coupons it makes you suspicious. Secondly, make sure you are getting an actual manager(LOD) and not just a team leader. I haven't had any problem except for having to ring everything up seperate. Hope this helps.
Continued.....I also caught another store changing their policies from corporate policies while I worked there. Corporate policies are blanket policies and MUST be followed by ALL Targets. I can not believe they called security over on you. Close to opening time is the best time to go and talk to LOD's especially the store manager. Target is notorious for treating people badly. Sad to say. I would also suggest if you are in the mood to fight. Call corporate while at target and hand your cell phone over to manager. Honestly it will work eventually. Ring up items seperately. Try checking out in the pharmacy as well. They are a lot more patient and understanding. Hope this helps someone.
I had a problem with coupons the first couple of times I tried Target (I'm a newbie), but I read somewhere you can print coupons at the wedding registry kiosk. Guess what? Thir corporate coupon policy is also on that computer and you can print it right there. I printed it (it printed on their special blue paper) and showed it to the cashier. She asked where I got it from and I told her it was IN THE STORE! Never had another problem and I carry it with me. Also, I tell the cashiers to use the hand scanner for the coupons because it almost always works without beeps. This past Saturday was my best Target trip yet. I got $42.98 worth of merchandise for $7.40 with a $5 Target gift card (for the Dreyer's deal). Yay!
Target...bleh. I just had to argue there today. I lined up the items and coupons on the belt and walked through reading each one with the cashier, and ended up doing the same thing with the manager after the cashier couldn't handle it anymore. We checked dates, item sizes, blah blah blah. She finally overrode all of the beepers.
She did say that "they" have been getting a hard time about coupons. From whom? I asked? She declined to respond. So if it's more than one Target it makes you think it's a corporate crack down, even if calling corporate seems to make things better. It disturbs me that a chain store can give it's managers so much authority in making decisions. Oh well.
One quick question...should you give the target coupons first or the manufacture coupons first or does it even matter? Thanks for the help.
hate TARGET,hate Target,hate Target.i'm a newbie.but i wanted to try it with good intentions. i wanted to buy the general mills cereals so i can donate it to the food pantry.At church, they always mention that the food pantry is so low in food that i thought, i'll do the coupons to help out. but in Bloomindale IL, Target, the cashier was so RUDE, condescending (a cashier mind you)and humiliated me in front of other customers.I will never ever shop at TARGET again and i will be telling people that Target has bad Customer Service. Sorry Food Pantry i will try something else to help out.
Here's my store of my last visit to Target. Excited about your post that Target is "price matching" I grabbed my Walgreen's flyer and drove the 60 miles to my closest Target. According to the policy I was to have my price match adjusted after checkout to keep the lines moving effeciently (my first mistake should have gone right to CS).
Anyways, I was there to purchase GM cereals at a price match of $1.99. With my target $1 off GM cereals and various MF coupons most of my cereals should have ended up being between $0.24 and $0.75
When I got to CS I was told that only (2) cereals were greater than $1.99 and was re-imburse $1.00. I figured the items must have already been on sale and the shelf signs were not changed. Wrong! The CS desk was looking at my totals after I had already used my target & MF coupons. Am I correct in thinking that they owe me the difference before I use my coupons then my coupons are taken off the $1.99? Corporate didn't seem to understand where I was coming from and had me so frustrated. Basically told me it would be up to the store manager to review.
While I was at Target near closing time in Friday night I asked a roving team member about the coupons I had in my hand. She told me, " Everyone, cashiers, everyone has been told what the policy is and that I shouldn't have any problems. While checking out the Front end manager was near my lane and told me the same thing. I hope it is more than just my Target and that Target Corp is fixing the long standing coupon issue problems for every store.
I went into target yesterday and i ALWAYS HAVE A PROBLEM..... well yesterday issue about using coupons and getting the oldest man in there freaking out i was using coupons i was ask to please leave and i was not allowed to purchase my items my managment since he was in a frazle about the whole coupons
I hate target. I've gone in multiple times getting shut down by the associate and their manager. It has nothing to do about stacking a manufacturer on top of a store coupon, it's the fact that I get EXACTLY what the coupon says & ''their system won't accept it''. That happened to me twice & since then I refuse to go to target. So they miss out on my coupons and my money..&& that's how I feel about that!!!
For example:
I have a coupon for $2 off ANY Rimmel Mascara. The Rimmel Mascara I got was for $2.24 and ''their system didn't accept it''.
How can I get someone to help me with that???? I would like to shop at target again, but not until they fix ''their system''.
Anonymous,
I'd call or email corporate. Just because the computer/couponing system is acting stupid, doesn't mean you shouldn't be able to use your coupons. Tell them why you are frustrated, what will happen if this isn't resolved (you'll stop shopping there) and see where this gets you.
WOW, 108 comments! LMAO! Thanks for sharing the email & response from Target. This is by far the best blog on saving money, I tell anyone who'll listen to me...
Last week I tried to do the herbal essences B1G1 mfr. coupon deal and stack the $1 off mfr. coupon with it and they wouldnt let me as it was 2 mfr. coupons. Has anyone had this issue? Technicallyyou are buying 1 at full price and getting one free, so I dont see why you cannot use the $1 off coupon on the one your buying. Additionally, I got the idea to do the deal from the weekly target post on here.
After reading your blog - I don't frequently shop at Target - but there have been too many great bargains to pass up. On my way in - I stopped at the guest relations to confirm the coupon policy before I went through the check out lane - the gentleman told me that if I had any issues - to give them "his" name - went through the checkout lane with no problems - I did have the policy printed out when I "chatted" with Steven at Guest Services. I haven't had problems at my Target here in Overland Park, Kansas! They rock!
I was told a Meijers this morning that they are having to many fradulent coupons and they aren't accepting any computer printed coupons. Sorry to here this because I guess I will have to take my business else wheres.
I was told today at target that they only accept ONE coupon for your entire transaction, even if they are different coupons because they are losing money. I told them that they get reimbursed for the coupons by the manufacturer, so they are not losing money. She said the store loses money because of coupons. Then I told her I would just split up my order and she could ring up every single item in separate transactions, she said there was a limit to one transaction per day but she would do it just this one time for me. If Target doesn't want my money, I'll take it to their competitors!!
I used to work for Target. I actually worked in what I would call an assistant manager position, but basically I was in charge of the front end department (registers, guest services, food service) and softlines (clothing). The term for the store manager is STL (store team leader) and for an assistant manager (executive team leader). I was the ETL-GR (executive team leader- guest relations). This is the person that you need to talk to in Target if you are having problems with coupons. Especially if you are getting watched by AP (asset protection) and being asked to leave the store or otherwise harrassed. I will tell you that there are individuals that come into Target and try to force employees to break corporate policy and several times those customers cannot control their anger level. Therefore, employees are taught to contact AP at the firsts sign of agressive tone or body language. If you cannot remain calm and cheerful when faced with stupidity, then you will need to rely on luck to get your coupon deals. However, if you can remain calm and cheerful, know the Target chain of command, and bring the documentation, I believe that most if not all ETLs will be happy to help you coupon.
This Friday I took advantage of the price match and target coupon deal to get the Leap Frog Alphabet Pal (Retail 19.98) for $0.49. I printed off Target's coupon policy, their price match policy, I sent an email to corporate verifying that I could use the price match with this product and printed off the email I received back that ok'd it. I went to the local Toys R Us and got a copy of the ad then called local Targets until I found one in stock. I went through the check out lines and was told that they did not honor door buster ads (they changed the policy yesterday to state such but the policy did not state that on Friday when I did this shop). I showed the cashier the policies that I had printed off and my email from corporate. The cashier stated that they still could not do it. I said, " I understand that you don't feel that you can complete this transaction. However, I know because I did my research that this transaction is not fraudulent. Would you please get the supervisor for me?" The cashier stated he was the supervisor. I said, "Then you are the ETL-GR for this location." I smiled and listened while he explained that he was the front lines team leader (which is like a head cashier or an assistant to the assistant manager.) I told him that I appreciated his help but that I was told to specifically address the ETL-GR and if that person was not available then the acting STL for the evening, if I had any problems. The cashier went to GS and spoke on his walkie talkie. I believe that the conversation went something like this: "She has the policies and an email from corporate. She is not backing down.'Is she being agressive towards you?' No, she is being nice and polite. 'The policy doesn't have anything about door buster exclusions.' No, the policy doesn't say anything about door busters and she has an email from corporate. 'Ok, do the adjustment and coupon but keep that email so we don't get into trouble and get the print outs too. I can't find them on our website.' Ok, ok. Will do." The cashier returned and said that they would do it this time only. He asked to keep my documentation, which I freely gave to him. He rang me up and I told him to have a nice day.
I hope this is helpful.
I also had troble on price matching and using a coupon. The cashier said they couldn't price match and do a coupon but being in the retail service I know there is a way to do anything. I told her no problem I'll take back my coupon go get the police and be back. She was so mad she gave me $10 as she grumbled it's so stupid we price match, I said it makes for a great gift and left smiling,Oh I would have gladly payed the 49 cents it should have been.
Had my first really bad experience at Target today with an employee working the customer service desk. Don’t assume that employees and their supervisors know their coupon policy. Always carry a copy of the Target coupon policy with you. I had to enlighten a very hostile customer service employee and the manager she called up. Neither of them knew about a Target coupon policy, I said I have it right here or you can probably look it up on your kiosk.
I’ve been carrying it around for a few months never really thinking that I’d actually need to pull it out and have a manager read it. I love the words from the Target supervisor to the customer service woman “she is right give her her money”.
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