Competition among supermarkets has increased in this economic climate. This is all to our benefit.

Supermarkets are now accepting competitor coupons of similar types of stores. For example at my A&P I was recently able to use coupons from Pathmark and Shop Rite.

Pathmark had the 24 count Poland Spring Water for $2.99. What a deal. And from Shop Rite I gleaned a Brawny 6 pack coupon for $3.99.

While they will not match an advertised special they will honor a coupon printed in the flyer.

But the competition is limited to other supermarkets. When I found the Pantene hair care on sale at CVS for 2/$6 with the attached coupon, the A&P considered this a different category of store and turned down my request.

Once again, be specific with the manager, and determine in advance which competitor coupons are accepted at the checkout.