Remember those jaw-dropping one-cent specials at Publix that made your jaw drop—buy one, get another for just a penny? They were the kind of rare deals shoppers bragged about on social media and in coupon groups. But lately, they’ve disappeared without official announcements, leaving many wondering why. Understanding what happened helps you spot when real…
If you’re a Discover cardholder, this quarter brings an easy opportunity to put more cash back in your pocket. From now through the end of the quarter, Discover 5% grocery store rewards are in effect, meaning you’ll earn five times the usual cashback rate on eligible supermarket purchases—up to the quarterly limit. With grocery prices…
Digital coupon apps from stores like Kroger and Safeway have become an essential tool for many shoppers, offering the promise of easy, paperless savings. While these apps do provide some legitimate discounts, their primary purpose is not just to save you money. They are sophisticated data collection and marketing tools designed to track your habits,…
The internet offers a world of amazing deals, but the promise of a steep discount can sometimes mask a deceptive or illegal scheme. Scammers exploit the excitement of online shopping to lure consumers into fraudulent situations that range from selling counterfeit goods to outright theft. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) constantly warns shoppers that if…
Convenience stores are masters of the impulse buy, offering quick access to snacks, drinks, and basic necessities. You pay a premium for that convenience, but with inflation making every dollar count, the price difference between a gas station and a grocery store is more significant than ever. Beyond just the high markups, some items sold…
Loyalty cards seem like a clear benefit for any shopper. You get access to special member pricing, earn points towards future rewards, and receive personalized discounts. In exchange for your repeat business, the store gives you money-saving perks. On the surface, it’s a win-win situation. However, the psychological and behavioral impacts of these programs can…
Cashback apps and websites seem like a no-brainer for savvy shoppers. The premise is simple and seductive: get paid for shopping you were already going to do. By scanning receipts or clicking through a portal, you accumulate small amounts of cash that, in theory, add up over time. However, a closer, more critical look reveals…
Shopping the sales feels like the smartest way to manage a budget. Focusing on discounted items seems like a guaranteed path to saving money. For many purchases, this is a wise strategy. However, a shopping habit that only revolves around chasing sales and weekly flyers can have its hidden costs and downsides. By exclusively focusing…
“Buy One, Get One Free,” or BOGO, is arguably one of the most powerful promotional phrases in retail. The word “free” triggers a strong emotional response in shoppers. It creates an immediate perception of unbeatable value. Retailers love using BOGO deals because they are incredibly effective at moving inventory and increasing sales. However, a closer…
Retail loyalty programs seem like a clear win for consumers. You sign up, often for free, and get access to exclusive discounts, points, and personalized offers. In return for your repeat business, you are rewarded. While these programs can offer genuine savings, there is a less visible, “darker” side to them. They are sophisticated tools…
Rebate offers can be an enticing incentive to make a purchase. The promise of getting cash back after buying a product makes the initial price seem much lower. While many rebates are legitimate and straightforward, others are designed in ways that make them difficult to claim or less valuable than they appear. These can function…
Retailers use a specific vocabulary to entice shoppers with the promise of savings. Labels like “Clearance,” “BOGO,” and “Final Sale” are designed to create urgency and a perception of great value. However, these terms don’t always mean what consumers assume. Each discount label has its implications for pricing, return policies, and the deal’s true value.…
Your grocery bill can feel never-ending these days, but the right pantry staples can act like a secret weapon against rising food costs. According to Everyday Cheapskate, food-at-home prices rose 2.4% last year, and staples like rice and pasta saw even steeper increases. By stocking up on essentials when they’re on sale, you not only…
Grocery stores love to make shoppers feel special. They use words like “exclusive,” “member-only,” or “private offer” to create a sense of getting a special deal that others don’t. This marketing tactic can be very effective, encouraging sign-ups for loyalty programs and driving sales. However, a closer look reveals that many of these “exclusive” discounts…
Grocery savings apps and cash-back platforms promise to put money back in your pocket. They offer digital coupons, rebates for scanning receipts, or rewards for shopping through their portals. For many users, these apps do provide some legitimate savings and can be a fun way to engage with deals. However, their value proposition isn’t always…
Coupon stacking, the practice of using multiple coupons (e.g., a manufacturer coupon combined with a store coupon) on a single item, was once a popular strategy for savvy savers. It allowed for significant discounts, sometimes even resulting in free items. However, in recent years, many supermarkets have tightened their coupon policies. They have severely restricted…