PMA Coupon Council Encourages Consumers to Be ‘Smart Shoppers’.

In recognition of the Sixth Annual National Coupon Month this September, the Promotion Marketing Association’s (PMA) Coupon Council has announced this year’s theme — “Shopping Smart.”

In
recognition of this month-long celebration of coupons, the Coupon Council offers tips, education and resources for consumers to “Shop Smart” on the National Coupon Month Web site, http://www.couponmonth.com

In 2002, shoppers saved $3 billion dollars by redeeming 3.8 billion coupons for a variety of product categories, including household cleaners, prepared foods, detergents and health remedies. In fact, 79% of all people in the U.S. use coupons, making it one of the most popular components of shopping in America.

Top 10 Product Categories with Largest Coupon Distribution (2002)

1. Household cleaners
2. Prepared foods
3. Detergents
4. Medications, remedies and health aids
5. Paper products
6. Condiments and gravies
7. Personal soap and bath additives
8. Frozen prepared foods
9. Cereal
10. Skin care preparations

“Consumers are often amazed to find out that they can save as much as 10-20% on grocery bills by spending as little as 20 minutes per week clipping coupons,” said Charles Brown, co-chair of the PMA Coupon Council. “Over the course of a year, this can add up. With $800-$1000 extra dollars in your pocket, you can afford to splurge on a luxury item or just feel better knowing you have drastically reduced your household expenses.”

The PMA Coupon Council also seeks to remind consumers that “Shopping Smart” means clipping coupons not only for packaged goods but also for discounts on a variety of products and services, including fast-food restaurants, apparel, accessories and home electronics, as these businesses are beginning to offer more and more coupon discounts.

The Coupon Council also emphasizes the widespread acceptance of coupons during National Coupon Month by releasing coupon usage data according to age and income.

Age – % Using Coupons
18-24 – 71%
25-34 – 76%
35-44 – 80%
55-64 – 83%
65+ – 84%

Income – % Using Coupons
Under $25,000 – 82%
$25-$50,000 – 83%
$50-$75,000 – 78%
$75,000+ – 76%

“It’s interesting to note that all demographics use coupons with relatively equal frequency,” said Lorraine Gallaher, co-chair of the PMA Coupon Council. “It doesn’t matter what your age or your income is, everyone is a smart shopper if they clip coupons.”

New Coupon Trends

Coupons are no longer just helpful at the grocery store. In 2002, they were redeemed with high frequency at other locations, including:

Frequency of Coupon Use while Shopping By Type of Store

Grocery stores – 75.7%
Mass merchandisers – 54.2%
Drug stores – 53.8%

For more information at http://www.pmalink.org