2010 End of Summer Savings Booklet

[jludos]

Well, for what it is worth, I also submitted request for clarification on AAFES.com via their "contact us" portal. Below is a copy of what I wrote...I'll let you know if I get a better answer than you did (although I'm not extremely hopeful at this point...)
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I am writing to gain better understanding of your coupon policy for AAFES stores. I have read the policy you have posted on AAFES.com, but still don't understand completely. As I strive to be an ethical user of coupons and desire to follow your policy fully I am asking for some additional clarification…

I have a question about this portion specifically: "REDEMPTION OF MANUFACTURER'S COUPONS. We will accept one AAFES-issued online and one manufacturer's online coupon for the same item, unless either coupon prohibits that practice."

Reading this, the above statement only covers ONLINE coupons and purchases...what about in-store purchases such as AAFES coupons that are offered at the front of the store in booklets? Can these be “stacked” with a manufacturer's coupon obtained from a newspaper insert, etc.? Many nationwide chains (including Target, Family Dollar, Safeway,) all allow their store coupons to be stacked with a manufacturer's coupon as a regular practice. However, I can't seem to gain a clear, definitive answer about how AAFES operates from the sources I have checked. Some AAFES staff say it is not allowed; some staff say it is allowed if the register doesn't "beep" or disapprove it; some say they really have no idea. Fellow coupon users I have asked say that they experience "hit-or-miss" acceptance, depending on the cashier they check-out with.

The other chains that do allow their coupons to be stacked with a manufacturer’s coupon have explained to me that their store “coupons” are technically just as if they were allowing an additional sale price to their patrons. These coupons are not submitted to the manufacturer for any reimbursement; so there is no “double-dipping” against the manufacturer at all. The limitation of one coupon per purchase indicates a “like” coupon – i.e. you cannot use two manufacturer’s coupons on the same item. However, a store is free to offer any additional discount that they would like (via a sale, in-store coupon, or other promotion) at no negligible effect to the manufacturer. Again, it is simply an extra discount offered to their loyal patrons.

The inconsistent answers about the AAFES policy seem to go against what you desire as a service provider - confusion, frustration, unclear communication. Please understand that I am not trying to be confrontational or aggressive, I simply am seeking a definitive answer and encouraging you to post a more clear and easy to understand coupon policy for those of us who want to do what’s right. Honestly, if I can or cannot use coupons in a certain manner at your store, it does influence my shopping habits because I try to be a very good steward of our finances. Additionally, the *last* thing I want to do is to unknowingly take advantage of your fine establishment just because I don’t understand your policy. I want to shop there with confidence and excitement about my shopping experience.

Thank you for taking the time to read my email. I look forward to your reply!

[jludos]

Here's the response I received:
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Dear Ms. Ludos:

Thank you for the opportunity to reply to your inquiry. Just as in the case of online coupons, AAFES will allow stacking of non-internet AAFES coupons and manufacturer’s coupons, provided there are no restrictions against stacking from either coupon party.

Thank you for your continued loyalty.

Sincerely,

Pat Cxxxxx
Store Operations/Policy
Sales Directorate
214 312-xxxx
cxxxxxx@aafes.com