I’m pretty sure most people are aware that there are regional differences in ads. CVS, Walgreen’s, Target, KMart all put out varying ads throughout the US. Heck even Rite Aid, who for so long only had a west coast and east coast ad, now has regional ads. Tops is only in two states now and has regional differences. I won’t put up Shop Rite deals because they have franchises and Inserra (one of the franchisers) really skews the Shop Rite deals.
What do regional differences mean to you? Well, no matter what blog, forum or email blast you follow to get your deal news, know that prices, deals and information may vary. What I have listed on sale for price XX may be priced at YY in your ad or store. There could be a size difference, or, it may not be on sale at all in your area.
Bloggers and forums posters are tools for you to utilize – no we are not a tool , but we are merely one instrument you can use to get the best savings possible and stretch your dollars.
• Read several blogs or forums
• Write down the deals for each store noted on the blog that interest you
• Compare the sales and prices to your ad
• Rework the math – you never know when you may discover a mathematical error that changes the worth of the entire deal
• Recheck the shelf price and watch the register as it rings up your merchandise
These are just a few caveats, but realize no one is infallible. Just as manufacturer coupons vary by region, so do advertisements. Always double check with your store flyer before assuming a price/deal will work for you.
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Wow – I didn’t know that Target ads vary by region? Even just the regular ad? Stop & Shop and Waldbaums & Pathmark all vary by location even. One down the street could have a better front page sale – esp products like Kelloggs Cereals – some are 2 for $4, some locations are 3 for $5. Ice cream, I’ve also noticed price variation and produce.