The Coupon Information Corporation, the industry’s watchdog group, has issued an alert to retailers cautioning them not to participate in filmings of TLC’s “Extreme Couponing:”
The CIC advises retailers that they should exercise caution when considering participation with the show “Extreme Couponing”, including allowing filming at retail sites. “Extreme Couponing” is a “reality” show produced by Sharp Entertainment and is broadcast on TLC, a part of Discovery Communications, Inc.
Some of the “guests” on the show, including at least one minor, have used counterfeit coupons and engaged in other practices in violation of State or Federal laws, manufacturers’ coupon redemption policies, and/or retailers’ coupon acceptance policies. Retailers may not be reimbursed for counterfeit coupons received from the show’s participants.
According to Lowes Foods, an employee of Sharp Entertainment posed as a customer on a show filmed at one of its stores. Lowes Foods, which has banned further cooperation with the show, issued a public apology for cooperating with the show. Some consumers have reportedly filed complaints against the show with the Federal Communications Commission.
…In summary, “Extreme Couponing” exposes its retail participants to potential legal issues and counterfeit coupons, which may not be reimbursed, as well as potential adverse publicity.
SaraW946 says
I hope stores will heed this alert and consumers will boycott the show. TLC is very dangerous for both consumers and for manufacturers and retailers. I also hope the Federal Trade Commission will do something about it, even to the extent of taking action against stores that facilitate fraud or unfair trading practices.
Flag1 says
Hopefully this will slow them down or even better, not renew the show for another season.
Flag1 says
Bummer on them coming back on the air. :-(
miriamlevy says
ok I admit that I’ve gotten hooked on this show …I don’t coupon except for a few store coupons — I prefer to shop sales and buy in bulk for only the items we use–we eat well, but I don’t spend a lot and i’m fine with that…
…that being said I am fascinated by this show because I like to dissect the individuals participating…
so back to the subject…I don’t have cable or any pay tv service so I buy the shows I like on iTunes…the first several episodes of season 2 of extreme couponing are missing…there are 7 available and you can buy the “season pass” for 18.99 but buying 7 is only just under $14….but now that I’ve read up on all the fraud that took place i’m wondering if THAT is why they are missing–the episode of the woman from Lowe’s who cleared shelves and had policy changed for her is one of the missing episodes….