Importance

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Abstract

The method and apparatus for creating and processing discount coupons includes central processor (16) for receiving from manufacturers information of product type, validation period and coupon value and for producing a central coupon list of available coupon discounts. The central list is transmitted to local processors (19) of retailers (18) whom hold manufacturer products for sale. The local processor (19) produces a local coupon list based on the central list containing only those manufacturers and product type which the retailer holds for sale. A coupon indicia (12) is printed by a printer (38) and is placed adjacent the product type listed in the coupon list to identify the product as having a discount. When the product is moved through the checkout station (20), the manufacturer and product type is obtained off the product by a scanner (40) and compared to the local coupon list by a coupon comparator (46). If the product is a coupon product, the coupon value is obtained from the list and is deducted from the retail price. A coupon counter (50) accumulates, by manufacturer and product type, the total coupon discounts redeemed. The central processor (16) receives the information from the counter (50) and directly bills the manufacturer or transfers funds. No printed coupons are presented in order to obtain a discount.

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First Claim