Before TLC’s Extreme Couponing show aired, I wrote this about the translation of Extreme Couponing in West Michigan.  The most popular question folks were asking me after they watched the show was, “what stores double coupons in West Michigan?”  The answer: they don’t. Let’s talk about why.

1.  We don’t have the competition here. The nearest grocery stores doubling coupons are in Howell.  (Hastings Family Fare has recently discontinued double coupons.)  There’s a Kroger store there which doubles up to $1.00.  In response, the local Meijer and the local Spartan store (VG’s) also double.  Each store has strict policies and guidelines, so be sure to check them out if you’re planning a trip.

2.  What does it mean when a store doubles coupons? Coupons redeemed at a grocery store are submitted by the store to the manufacturer.  The manufacturer reimburses the store for the face value of the coupon. IF a store is doubling coupons, the store has decided to match the value of that coupon. It is their own promotion. 

For example, the reason you can pair a BOGO coupon with a BOGO sale at Rite Aid to get 2 items for FREE is because the manufacturer is giving you one FREE when you buy the item the store decided to give you for FREE in their sale. Make sense?

3.  Stores adjust prices to compensate for double coupons. In my experience making the trip to Howell, I found that the price of items before coupons was higher than here in West Michigan.  After double coupons, the item was definitely more affordable, but I might have gotten a similar deal by timing my purchases right with our own sales.

4.  Road trip to a double coupon location? It’s been a while, but I’ve done it. Things to consider:

• Current gas prices – They were much lower when I made the trip.  I saved over $80, but I spent $20 on gas. With current gas prices, you’re probably better off shopping the West Michigan grocery deals. Besides, farmers markets will be here before we know it!
• The value of your own time – Is it worth the 3+ hour round trip to save $60? I personally would consider that paying myself $20 per hour. Plus I have the added value of telling you all about my adventures. ;)
• The number of coupons you have in your stash – You need a LOT of high-value coupons to make it worth your time. Most store guidelines limit you to doubling no more than 3 like coupons, so it’s difficult to add up your savings unless you’re buying a wide variety of items.

Any questions or feedback? Has someone made a road trip solely for double couponing and found it to be well worth their while? Please share with us in the comments section.