Cincinnati Kroger Stores Ending Double Coupons

[Sherman A1]

The Kroger Co. stores in Greater Cincinnati and Dayton will lower prices on about 3,500 items starting next week, and will also discontinue doubling coupons.

“Kroger is making a multimillion dollar investment into lowering prices,” said Scot Hendricks, VP of merchandising for the Cincinnati/Dayton division, who made the announcement at the Kroger Newport Marketplace Friday morning. Hendricks did not say how much Kroger is investing in the project, but he said the company will more than triple the spending used on doubling coupons.

The new everyday lower prices and new shelf tags will roll out Monday, Feb. 4. In 30 days, Kroger will discontinue its practice of automatically doubling coupons up to 50 cents, but will continue to accept manufacturer, digital and targeted mailer coupons.

A few examples of the new lower prices include: the cost of a three-pound bag of onions will drop $1, a 24-pack of Kroger bottled water will drop 71 cents, and Rubbermaid containers will drop $1.40. The majority of the lower prices will be found in the grocery, produce, organics, natural foods and general merchandise departments. In addition, Kroger will continue to offer its popular special weekly deals, such as 10 for $10 and buy five save $5 mega events.

http://www.progressivegrocer.com/top-stories/headlines/industry-intelligence/id37254/cincinnati-kroger-stores-ending-double-coupons/

[Purveyor]

1. This will be a problem for Kroger unless neighboring stores follow suit. Unless it is on sale at

Kroger, I don't buy it with or without a coupon.

[Sherman A1]

2. I suspect

they have run the numbers on this and will decide as to going company wide or not after this test rollout in the mentioned areas. Based upon the decision JC Penny just made on their last marketing idea, I don't think it will get very far, but time will tell.

[Curmudgeoness]

3. I think it is a good idea.

Instead of only having benefit to the people who use coupons, and on products with coupons, many products will be cheaper for everyone. I rarely use coupons, since most of them are for things that I would never buy and are more expensive even with a coupon. Having things I always need, like onions, priced lower is a great deal to me.

[RebelOne]

4. My neighborhood Kroger here in North Georgia has not had double coupons for years. n/t