Cash-strapped consumers are turning to digital coupons to save on everyday purchases. According to research released last month by eMarketer, 88.2 million consumers will use digital coupons when shopping this year. Thanks to new technology and Internet, shoppers have a greater opportunity to save. Consumer Savings expert Andrea Woroch lists seven best places to score digital coupons.
Merchant e-Newsletters
Many online retail sites offer e-newsletters that deliver coupons directly to shoppers’ inboxes that promote exclusive promotions, sales and events. (Reuters)
Online Coupon Sites
When checking out online, consumers should not leave the box asking for a promo code empty—there’s a good chance somewhere in cyberspace is a discount code. Many sites post a myriad of coupons at your disposal. Check out aggregator sites like PromoCodes.us that organize online coupons for thousands of stores. (Reuters)
Live Chats
Many retailers offer online chats with a representative. Take advantage of this option and ask for a promo or free shipping code, it never hurts to ask!
e-Bank Statements
BillShrink is working with more than 2,000 banks to unveil a new program. Statement Rewards is half loyalty card and half daily deal coupon and monitors your bank statements for larger payments at a particular restaurant—that restaurant could then include a coupon for a corresponding amount directly under the statement's listing for the purchase. (Reuters)
Social Media Sites
By ‘following’ or ‘liking’ a company, shoppers may be privy to plenty of savings and deals. (Reuters)
Mobile Phones
Getting ready to checkout in a store? There are many mobile apps that find coupons based on a user’s location. Coupon Sherpa has a free application that allows you to search for mobile coupons while still in a store.
Rewards Cards
That little card attached to your keychain is more than a decoration. While most provide cents-off deals and special rewards on items, some retailers now allow shoppers to download coupons directly to a card.