Catalinas

This is a term you will see pretty frequently on the coupon message boards. It refers to those little magic coupon printing machine boxes that sit by the cash register and print out coupons and advertisements either as your order is being rung up, or after you pay (or sometimes both). It is referred to as it a Catalina because the company that operates them is Catalina Category Marketing.

Catalina machines can be found in over 22,000 stores!

Most of the catalina machines in my area have a ready light on them that will start to blink as they are getting ready to print more coupons. This is something to be aware of because it is very easy to walk away from the register without all of your coupons.

Catalina's website explains it's behavioral marketing. Their company offers manufacturers and retailers several options for marketing including historical based (following the transacations of your frequent shopper card) and UPC based (ever wonder why when you buy one brand of a product out pops a coupon for the competitors brand)

Some Catalina deals will be advertised in your store flyers. These will typically be the Buy $20 in XX Brand and get $7 off OYNO (on your next order) type of deals. Others may be labeled in the store. IE buy 2 dressing and receive $x off your next order.

What do you do if a Catalina should print (or you think it should) and it doesn't? First go to customer service, sometimes they can handle it for you. If that doesn't work, or you get home before you realize it. Then call Catalina there numbers: 1(888) 322-3814 or 1-888-8COUPON (1-888-826-8766) Be prepared with your receipt, any ad info that you may have and time to be on hold. Also note they can not see the transaction in their computer for at least 24 hours after it occurs.

Lastly, unless they come up with a new wording for catalinas, they are based on your PRE COUPON purchase price, if they claim otherwise require them to show you where it says so.