There’s Only One Way to Use Coupons at Trader Joe’s—Here’s How

Updated: Nov. 10, 2023

Trader Joe's never fails to surprise us—or help us save some cash—but can you use coupons at Trader Joe's too?

In the world of grocery stores, there’s one that stands apart from the rest: Trader Joe’s. No, it’s not because of its legendarily distinct products. (Although, Trader Joe’s snacks and the viral Trader Joe’s pizza may prove otherwise). It actually has to do with something else that makes the store unique. Despite the affordable prices at Trader Joe’s, the chain does not offer coupons.

What!? It’s true. Regular Trader Joe’s shoppers may have noticed that the chain does not offer coupons or sales. Less frequent Trader Joe’s customers may wonder: How is this possible? It turns out, Trader Joe’s has a reason for its no- coupon policy. Luckily, there’s still one type of coupon customers can use at Trader Joe’s when it comes to saving.

Why doesn’t Trader Joe’s have coupons or sales?

According to Trader Joe’s website, the chain doesn’t have sales because they aim to have “low prices, every day.” The store emphasizes that they have no coupons, membership cards (unlike Costco memberships) or discounts. This goes for online or in-store. Trader Joe’s says it rejects “glitzy promotions or couponing wars” at its stores. Instead, they offer “the best everyday values, every day.” And when it comes to its occasional free flowers and cheap items, this certainly rings true. Despite not having coupons, though, the chain still accepts one particular type of coupon.

This Is the Only Type of Coupon Trader Joe’s Accepts

Woman Cuts Coupons from advertisement section of the Sunday Newspaper with bright orange scissorsKAREN BLEIER/Getty Images

While Trader Joe’s store products are off the table when it comes to discounts, the store does accept coupons for other types of products. More specifically, non-Trader Joe’s products. These coupons are known as manufacturer coupons. Here’s how they work.

What is a manufacturer’s coupon?

Manufacturer coupons are coupons issued by a product’s manufacturer. This means that if TJ’s carries a product not affiliated with Trader Joe’s, you can redeem a coupon for it. While the majority of products at Trader Joe’s are Trader Joe’s made, some are not! Aka, there are opportunities to save at the beloved chain. You may just have to search for them.

Do all Trader Joe’s locations have to accept manufacturer coupons?

Yes, all Trader Joe’s locations accept manufacturer coupons. According to Krazy Coupon Lady, “It’s a little-known fact that all Trader Joe’s locations accept manufacturer coupons.” So, if you’re looking to save next time you go to Trader Joe’s, check out its items that aren’t Trader Joe’s made. If you happen to find a coupon for them, it may just save you a few dollars.