Kroger has brought back paper coupons, and it's creating some buzz. The big grocery chain is letting customers grab those classic flyers and scan them at self-checkout.
For many shoppers, this isn't just about nostalgia – it changes how people plan and shop.
The Story Behind Kroger’s Paper Coupon Comeback
Kroger decided to bring paper coupons back into stores after sticking mostly to digital promotions for a while.
As much as high-tech loyalty programs try to pull folks in, it turns out there’s something about holding an actual coupon that people like. You just feel the deal is real when it’s in your hand.
In fact, 90% of customers in the US say they want discounts, and 40% prefer paper coupons specifically, just because they’re tangible.
Kroger’s been running a massive loyalty program; there are about 90 million households in it. But loyalty points and digital coupons don’t always change how people shop.
Why Paper Coupons Still Matter
Here’s the thing: not every shopper plans their trips using digital coupons. Some folks flat-out ignore them. With paper, the discount can't be missed; it’s right in front of you. That means people are more likely to spot a deal and actually use it.
People compare deals across stores too. One week, you see yourself picking up meat at one supermarket, eggs at another, and produce somewhere else—just chasing the best bargains.
If you don’t know a deal exists because it’s tucked away in an app, Kroger might miss out on your shopping trip.
Is This The Start of a Larger Trend?
This move might make other stores rethink things. The market is tough, and if customers say they want something simple—like paper flyers—then stores will probably listen.
Not everyone wants to download another app or scroll through digital offers.
And it’s not just about economics. When you’re out shopping, being able to see the deals just makes planning easier. A piece of paper might sound old-fashioned, but it works.
Turns out, tech can’t replace everything. At least for now, people—at least some of them—seem thrilled about seeing those paper coupons come back to life at Kroger.
