Publix 411

Update: Publix Coupon Policy, Posted May 10, 2011.

Since I have started using coupons, I have saved my family over 50% on groceries. I learned how to use them more efficiently and with better results.  I love shopping at Publix and find I do most of my food shopping there. Below I have listed the top 7 tips and my experience with them.

I have the Publix coupon match ups usually done be Wednesday.  Click on the Publix logo above and check out the weekly ad. Also check back here where I’ll post my Publix deals for the week, so you can see the savings for yourself.

1) Publix accepts competitor coupons. Store Managers set the rules so be sure to check with Customer Service on what your store considers a competitor.

I am now driving past my regular Publix, and shopping at a new one down the road. Why? Because the new one accepts Walgreens, CVS and many other competitor coupons that my other Publix would not. I choose to drive a few miles out of my way to save my family money. It’s wonderful when you can use a $5 off $x amount coupon.

2) Publix will accept 1 manufacturer coupon and 1 store coupon (Publix or Competitor) per item. This is also allowed for BOGO items, so stack 4 coupons and you can maximize your savings.

I have walked away with free food after stacking coupons and the best is when there is an additional mail in rebate. When I do these I tell my husband that “they paid me to buy these!” It’s enjoyable to eat something you know was FREE!

3) For items that are listed on sale when you purchase multiples, for example: 5 for $5 or 2 for $4, you only need to buy 1 to get the sale price.

Sometimes I only need 1 package of Nestle brownie bites. (Shhh don’t tell anyone.) Recently they were on sale 2 for $5. I purchased 1 at $2.50, used $1 off MFR Q and .55 off Food Lion Q, and got it for .95.

4) Publix Checkout promise states that if an item scans at a higher price than the shelf or advertised price, the customer with get one of that item for free. Go here to read more.

I always check out the clearance rack when I shop. Recently I picked up a package of scotch tape with a price tag of 2 for $5. I picked up one, and it rang up $4.99 so the cashier gave it to me for free.

5) Make sure to ask for a rain check for items that are on sale, but the store is out of. You can come back later, get the item at the sale price and still use your coupons.

Crystal light was BOGO one week but they were out of the flavor we use. I got a rain check and as luck would have it, a coupon came out before I redeemed it. I got the sale price and was able to use the coupon.

6) Take advantage of the large register screen at checkout. Verify prices and make sure all your coupons are scanned correctly.

I used a $5 off $50 Walgreens purchase. I was watching the screen and noticed the cashier ADDED $5 instead of subtracting it. I caught it right away and she was able to fix it. Cashiers have to manually enter competitor coupons so make sure they don’t make a mistake. Always check your receipt before you leave the store so you can catch any mistakes and have them fixed right away.

7) Some stores take expired manufacturer coupons. Just ask Customer service, you maybe surprised.

In December I had a coupon for summer sausage, but my Publix was out of it every time I went in. Customers Service ordered it for me but I let them know I had a coupon expiring soon. They told me it wouldn’t be a problem because they would accept expired coupons. Just be sure to ask first so you follow their policies.

Please check with your store if you have any questions. Publix will be reimbursed for manufacturer coupons but they will not for competitor coupons. They accept these as a courtesy to their customers so please do not abuse it.

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