Greedy Couponers -- Do You Deal With It At Your Store?

[Michelle at I Heart Publix]

Sara emailed the following. I thought I would share it to see if you
all had any feedback for her. I know it can be frustrating to deal with
greedy folks but I am not sure I have any solutions for her. Maybe you
guys will have some ideas!

I have been wanting to write this for a long time – not as it
applies to you or any of the readers who “coupon with
compassion.”

I have noticed that in the past several months some couponers
are becoming more “greedy” or inconsiderate of others. I am
speaking of those who insist on waiting at the doors of Publix
on the first day of a sale and immediately clearing the shelves
of every available item. I would not have an issue with this
if it were multiple individuals buying one or two of an item.
I do have an issue with the one or two who purchase all items
just to get the deal – even though the items will not be used
immediately. I am all in favor or people stocking up on
products that they use when they are on sale – I do that
myself. However, I do not do it at the expense of other
customers. What I mean by this is that I might purchase
a few on the first day of the sale, but if I want more,
I will return later in the week to get more. This gives
others a chance to take advantage of the deals. If it is out
of stock later in the week, I will gladly take a raincheck and
come back when the shelves have been restocked.

I know people will argue that “the early bird gets the worm”
and that they are not doing anything wrong since Publix does
not always set a limit. However, just because something is
possible – does not mean that it should be done at the expense
of other shoppers. I know people will also argue that Publix
should order more stock. Maybe they should – but that does
not make it alright to hoard all the sale items available.

I have spoken personally with several different
managers/employees at various Publix locations and they all
have similar stories regarding these people who are
inconsiderate of other shoppers and buy everything in stock.
Publix does not enforce limits on many items – except when
people choose their own selfish need to get the beat deals
and ignore the fact that they are not the only people in the
world who might need the items.

One additional problem caused by a few individuals emptying
the stock the first day of a sale is that here in Tennessee –
that first day, Wednesday, is senior discount day. I have
been in the store many times when I see an older individual
who comes to shop on Wednesday for the discount but is unable
to find any of the sale items left. Even if they are able to
get the raincheck, unless they return on a Wednesday they will
not get their discount. It may not seem like much but for
those on a fixed income – it is important.

I guess I just wanted to get this off my chest and I hope that
you either post the sentiment or even parts of my email. I
know most who are part of the problem will ignore the issue,
find ways to justify their actions, or possibly not even
recognize themselves as part of the problem.