Sara emailed the following. I thought I would share it to see if you all had any feedback for her. I know it can be frustrating to deal with greedy folks but I am not sure I have any solutions for her. Maybe you guys will have some ideas!
I have been wanting to write this for a long time – not as it applies to you or any of the readers who “coupon with compassion.”
I have noticed that in the past several months some couponers are becoming more “greedy” or inconsiderate of others. I am speaking of those who insist on waiting at the doors of Publix on the first day of a sale and immediately clearing the shelves of every available item. I would not have an issue with this if it were multiple individuals buying one or two of an item. I do have an issue with the one or two who purchase all items just to get the deal – even though the items will not be used immediately. I am all in favor or people stocking up on products that they use when they are on sale – I do that myself. However, I do not do it at the expense of other customers. What I mean by this is that I might purchase a few on the first day of the sale, but if I want more, I will return later in the week to get more. This gives others a chance to take advantage of the deals. If it is out of stock later in the week, I will gladly take a raincheck and come back when the shelves have been restocked.
I know people will argue that “the early bird gets the worm” and that they are not doing anything wrong since Publix does not always set a limit. However, just because something is possible – does not mean that it should be done at the expense of other shoppers. I know people will also argue that Publix should order more stock. Maybe they should – but that does not make it alright to hoard all the sale items available.
I have spoken personally with several different managers/employees at various Publix locations and they all have similar stories regarding these people who are inconsiderate of other shoppers and buy everything in stock. Publix does not enforce limits on many items – except when people choose their own selfish need to get the beat deals and ignore the fact that they are not the only people in the world who might need the items.
One additional problem caused by a few individuals emptying the stock the first day of a sale is that here in Tennessee – that first day, Wednesday, is senior discount day. I have been in the store many times when I see an older individual who comes to shop on Wednesday for the discount but is unable to find any of the sale items left. Even if they are able to get the raincheck, unless they return on a Wednesday they will not get their discount. It may not seem like much but for those on a fixed income – it is important.
I guess I just wanted to get this off my chest and I hope that you either post the sentiment or even parts of my email. I know most who are part of the problem will ignore the issue, find ways to justify their actions, or possibly not even recognize themselves as part of the problem.
