Kohl’s, a well-known and loved American retail chain, made a significant change to its coupon policy recently. This has left many customers wondering: why did Kohl’s change their coupon policy? This article dives deep into the reasons behind Kohl’s decision, the new policy, and the impact it has on customers and the company’s performance.
Kohl’s changed their coupon policy as part of a broader transformation plan to offset recent losses and reduce its reliance on general promotions. The new policy simplifies layered discounts and aims to improve the company’s overall business performance in response to the changing market conditions. Despite some customers’ disappointment, the change has contributed to the company’s return to more consistent profitability.
Kohl’s Coupon Policy: The Change
The new coupon policy at Kohl’s is quite different from the older one. Customers can now apply a maximum of four coupons to their order, which are applied in this order during checkout:
- Department-specific dollar-off or percentage-off coupons are applied to the qualifying items.
- Dollar-off coupons (like Kohl’s Cash and Rewards Cash) are subtracted from the total.
- One sitewide percentage-off coupon can be applied to qualifying items.
Furthermore, a maximum of four gift cards or Kohl’s Merchandise Credits can be redeemed per order. Certain brands and product categories at Kohl’s are not eligible for any storewide or department-specific promotions or discounts. However, you can still earn and redeem Kohl’s Cash and Kohl’s Rewards when purchasing these items.
The Reasons Behind the Change
Kohl’s decision to change its coupon policy was part of a broader transformation plan. The company aimed to offset recent losses and reduce its reliance on general promotions. Kohl’s found itself in an uncomfortable middle ground between discount and high-end retailers, making it vulnerable to consumers’ shifting spending patterns. By simplifying layered discounts, Kohl’s aims to adapt to the changing market conditions and improve its overall business performance.
Impact on Customers’ Shopping Experience
The change in Kohl’s coupon policy has affected customers’ shopping experience in various ways. Some customers have expressed disappointment with the coupon policy, feeling shortchanged and calling it a scam. However, Kohl’s has not violated consumer laws, and the retailer is free to apply its discounts in any order it chooses.
Despite the changes, Kohl’s still allows customers to stack dollar-off coupons with percent-savings coupons, which can lead to significant savings. However, more products are being added to the no-sale list, meaning customers cannot use Kohl’s coupons and promotional offers on these items. Additionally, Kohl’s has enhanced its Rewards program, offering an elevated earn rate of 7.5% Kohl’s Rewards on every purchase for members who use their Kohl’s Card.
Customer Reactions and Feedback
Customer reactions to the change in Kohl’s coupon policy have been mixed. Some feel disappointed with the restrictions, while others can still find ways to save through stacking coupons and participating in the enhanced Rewards program. Kohl’s has faced legal challenges regarding its coupon policy, but courts have ruled that the policy is not illegal.
Impact on Kohl’s Sales and Profitability
The change in coupon policy has contributed to the company’s return to more consistent profitability. Kohl’s reported an unexpected profit for a quarter after multiple quarters of disappointing sales. The new CEO, Tom Kingsbury, has been focusing on refreshing stores, modernizing inventory, and cutting back on Kohl’s overlapping deals to improve the company’s competitiveness.
Comparison with Other Retail Chains
When compared to other retail chains, Kohl’s coupon policy is quite competitive and flexible. It allows customers to stack multiple coupons, including department-specific and sitewide percentage-off coupons, to maximize their savings on purchases.
Future Changes in Kohl’s Coupon Policy
Kohl’s plans to reduce its reliance on general promotions in 2023 by simplifying layered discounts. However, specific details about the changes in their coupon policy have not been disclosed yet. It is important to keep an eye on Kohl’s announcements and updates to stay informed about any future changes in their coupon policy.
In conclusion, while the change in Kohl’s coupon policy has left some customers feeling disappointed, it has been a strategic move for the company to boost its profitability. The flexibility of the policy, when compared to other retail chains, provides customers with opportunities to maximize their savings. It is crucial for customers to stay updated with Kohl’s announcements to make the most out of their shopping experience at Kohl’s.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Kohl’s Cash and Rewards Cash?
Kohl’s Cash is a reward that customers earn for shopping at Kohl’s. It can be used during specific redemption dates on anything in store, online, and at the kiosk. Rewards Cash is part of the Kohl’s Rewards program, where customers earn 5% Kohl’s Rewards on every purchase every day.
What are the department-specific dollar-off or percentage-off coupons at Kohl’s?
Department-specific dollar-off or percentage-off coupons are discounts that apply only to certain categories of items. For example, a customer might have a coupon that gives them 20% off on all items in the home department.
How can I stay updated with Kohl’s announcements?
You can stay updated with Kohl’s announcements by signing up for their email list, following them on their social media platforms, or regularly checking their website.
What is the Kohl’s Rewards program and how has it been enhanced?
Kohl’s Rewards program is a customer loyalty program where you earn 5% Kohl’s Rewards on every purchase every day. The enhanced version of the program offers an elevated earn rate of 7.5% Kohl’s Rewards on every purchase for members who use their Kohl’s Card.
What are some of the brands and product categories that are not eligible for any storewide or department-specific promotions or discounts at Kohl’s?
The complete list of brands and product categories that are not eligible for promotions or discounts can be found on Kohl’s website. It’s always good to check the exclusions list before making a purchase.
