NCH US-Coupon College


		Our goal, like yours, is to create the most efficient coupon processing environment possible. The first step in this endeavor is understanding the "basics" that lead to good couponing. Here at Coupon College, we've outlined the responsibilities of Manufacturers, Retailers and Agents, as well as, answered the questions that arise regarding efficient couponing. If you have any questions regarding efficient couponing, ideas for an improved couponing environment or couponing success stories you'd like to share, we'd love to hear them. Please send us an email at inter-content@NCHMarketing.com. In addition, if you have additional questions regarding couponing, you may want to check out the Retailer FAQs and Manufacturer FAQs pages on our site. Couponing College - "Couponing 101" Manufacturer Responsibilities Develop coupon promotions Design within industry guidelines Submit coupon release notice to NCH Evaluate effectiveness of programs Retailer Responsibilities Honor coupons from consumers Scan/verify purchase Submit coupons for payment [BACK TO TOP] Retailer Agent Responsibilities Sort and invoice coupons by manufacturer Pay retailers upon receipt of coupons Collect receivables from manufacturer agents and reconcile invoices Provide adjustment detail to retailer Manufacturer Agent Responsibilities 100% Coupon entry / scanning Retailer paid based upon manufacturer payment policies Adjustment detail provided to submitter Data retention - all transaction detail maintained to the invoice, store tag and offer level Promotion statistics provided to manufacturer [BACK TO TOP] What Are Hard to Handle (HTH) Coupons? Those that have: An unclear offer An incorrect UPC code Confusing artwork Not scannable or erroneous scan code Or a variable price Why the Concern with HTH Coupons? Slows P.O.S. (point of sale) systems Increases clearinghouse processing time Damages retailer/manufacturer relations Creates adjustments that can lead to deductions Results in potential additional costs from retailers [BACK TO TOP] Elements for Efficient Coupon Redemption Design coupons in compliance with industry standards Keep promotion clear and concise Review coupon art proof prior to distribution Ensure accuracy of the information provided to NCH Consider all parties involved with the coupon process Why Use UPC "5" Coupon Bar Codes? Adds efficiency at point of sale Validates coupon usage against purchased items Reduces key entry errors Adds efficiency at retailer clearinghouse level [BACK TO TOP] Why Use the EAN-128 Extended Coupon Code? Recommended by the industry Allows scanning of offer code Improves processing efficiencies at POS and clearinghouse agents Maintains higher levels of data integrity Enables manufacturer to participate in "One Count" environment Why Use Legal Verbiage? Clarifies terms of promotion to consumer and retailer States redemption address Explains the manufacturers' redemption policy to retailers Communicates a null cash value without the purchase of the required product [BACK TO TOP] What Is An Example of Legal Verbiage? The following is shown only as an illustration. Seek the advice of your own legal counsel when establishing legal verbiage and redemption policies. CONSUMER: One coupon per purchase. Good only on product indicated. Consumer pays any sales tax. Void if sold, exchanged or transferred. RETAILER: Redeem on terms stated for consumer upon purchase of product indicated. ANY OTHER USE CONSTITUTES FRAUD. If submitted in compliance with ____________'s Coupon Redemption Policy (copies available upon request), you will be reimbursed face value plus 8¢. Mail to: _____________ . Failure to produce on request invoices proving purchase of stock covering coupons may void all coupons submitted. Void if taxed, restricted, prohibited or presented by other than retailers of our products. Cash value 1/100¢. [BACK TO TOP] Why Is It Important to Develop a Redemption Policy? Communicates manufacturer standards for coupon redemption Helps deter misredemption Provides consistent message to retailers Supports terms and conditions of coupon promotion What Are Some Key Factors to Consider When Developing a Redemption Policy? Print on your company letterhead Ask your legal department or attorney to review Communicate your message clearly, concisely, and consistently Distribute your policy to retailers [BACK TO TOP] Important Elements For An Accurate Database Submit coupon characteristic information prior to distribution Complete the minimum required forecast components Brand Distribution/expiration dates DATES Distribution quantity Face value Multiple purchase requirements Distribution media What Are the Effects of An Inaccurate Database? Inaccurate forecasting Incorrect historical data Inefficient processing Your database is only as good as the information you provide! What is the Importance of a Comprehensive Coupon Program Improves overall efficiencies of coupon processing Maintains integrity of coupon terms by ensuring proper validation Communicates clear and concise message to all parties involved in coupon flow Increases control over "total" coupon investment [BACK TO TOP] PRINTABLE VERSION [About NCH] [Retailer Solutions] [Manufacturer Solutions] [Analytical Services] [News & Events] [Coupon College] [Join Us] [Contact Us] [Home]