Publix Coupon Woes? What to do...

I have been hearing from many of you about Publix stores denying coupons. Some stores are not taking competitor coupons, and others are not accepting coupons with values over a dollar. I know that this is frustrating and really hope that these policies will change soon!

Until then, here are some things that you can do:

• Speak to your store manager to clarify what the specific coupon policies are at your store. Remember that Publix is committed to a high standard of customer service. Even if they don't allow you to use a specific coupon, they will at least know that you are trying to understand the rules so that you can play by them honestly.

• Call (863-688-1188) or email Publix corporate offices detailing your experience. Be sure to include your store location and number (look at the bottom of your receipt). Of course, please be kind and courteous. I have heard from several people who have done this and have been told that corporate would be contacting their store to discuss correcting certain coupon policies. A blogger at Sweetwater Savings just did this very thing. You can read corporate's reply email HERE outlining Publix' coupon policies.

• Be sure to use coupons ethically. Last week my cashier was telling me about my store's policy regarding BOGO printable Q's and that they don't accept them anymore because of fraudulent coupon use. While this is certainly an understandable decision on Publix' part, it is frustrating because those using fraudulent coupons ruin the system for those who work hard to make sure they are using coupons honestly. I truly believe that building a level of trust between you and the associates at your store goes a long way. Lets all make sure we're using our coupons honestly, so that Publix can continue to offer the great deals and generous coupon policies that we love so much!

• Obtain competitor coupons that your store will let you use. For example, if your store does not allow Target coupons, find out what other stores in the area your Publix store does consider to be "competitors". Then check out those store websites and ads for coupons to use at Publix (and please let me know so that I can include them in the weekly posts!).

• Obtain more manufacturer coupons. Ask non-couponing friends and family for their coupon inserts. Sites like Coupon Clippers enable you to buy multiple coupons for a fraction of the coupon's face value (for example, buy $1/1 Ken's Dressing Q's for $.10/each, and use them at Publix when they're BOGO). Depending on what products you buy, this can end up being less expensive than Sunday papers, and you don't have do all of that searching and clipping. Combine these coupons with the sales at Publix and you're in business!

• Finally, great savings can still be had! It might just take a little extra time and creativity to score good deals while working within the confines of your store's coupon policies.

Have you had success handling coupon issues at your store? Tell us how!