Coupons are defined as promotional offers used by consumers to receive a discount or free item when making a purchase. More than four out of five households use coupons. A well-designed coupon can be a valuable and effective marketing tool. Developing a compelling offer to the consumer drives traffic as well as delivers extra advertising value at minimal cost. Learn more about couponing and view a sample coupon to use in your next promotion.

Coupons can be used to:

• Introduce new or improved products
• Maintain or increase traffic to your location
• Attract first-time users in an effort to convert them to regular buyers
• Soften price increases
• Increase brand awareness (name recognition, etc.)

Possible coupon offers:

• Price deal: A temporary reduction in the price, such as happy hour
  "Stop in this Tuesday from 4:00-6:00 p.m. for a half-price car wash."
• Cents-off deal: Offers a brand at a lower price. Price reduction may be a percentage or dollar amount.
• "Redeem this coupon for $1.00 off your next ca rwash -or- Receive 10% off your next car wash with this coupon."
• Loyalty deal: Offers incentive to customer to be a repeat purchaser and rewards loyalty.
• "Five car washes for the price of four when you purchase in advance -or- Buy one car wash, and get the second one for half-price".
• On-line couponing: Coupons available on your web site. Consumers print them out and bring them to your location. This can be a very inexpensive form of couponing as there are no print costs. The only direct cost associated with an electronic coupon is the time it takes to make the change to your web site.
  

Sample Coupon
Below is a sample ad that includes a coupon. The bottom of the ad has been left open, enabling you to insert your own coupon. Feel free to use this ad in your print advertising and/or electronically on your website. When customizing the ad, be sure to include your location, contact information, and web site (if applicable).

Coupon ad (color version)
Coupon ad (black and white version)

Have a marketing tip or success story? Please send to info@carwash.org.