(photo: Associated Press)

Well, KFC took umbrage at one part of Boston Market CEO Lane Cardwell's take on the $1 chicken meal coupon, saying he got his facts wrong when talking about his competitor.

According to KFC spokesman Rick Maynard, all KFC restaurants serve fresh, not frozen chicken, including the chicken served during KFC's free grilled chicken giveaway last week. In fact,

KFC restaurants receive shipments of fresh chicken on the bone throughout each week, just like we did when Colonel Sanders was at the helm of the company. The free Kentucky Grilled Chicken we gave away to America on both our “UNFry Day” events was delivered fresh, not frozen, to our more than 5,000 restaurants.

according to Maynard. 

Thanks for clearing that up, Rick. Now, who's ready for lunch?

Posted by Liz Kay at 12:09 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Food
        

Boston Market CEO Lane Cardwell

As the CEO of Boston Market I must admit right off that I am biased. Let me tell you about the $1 promotion from our perspective, since everyone is entitled to an opinion.

When KFC released their press release on Thursday, Oct. 22 that they were going to repeat their 1 piece of chicken giveaway on Monday, Oct. 26 we decided this time to not let it go unchallenged. By late Thursday we had decided on our offer: $1 for 1/4 of a white meat chicken, mashed potatoes, and corn bread. A real meal, not a piece of chicken.

Our biggest challenge was in deciding whether our stores would have enough food, since they would not have time to place an order for more food before the promotion would begin. We decided that we were safe with up to a tripling of our normal business and would not be advertising or publicizing the promotion.

We e-mailed our 400,000 VIP Club members, included a "Forward to a friend" button, and sent out the e-mails on Sunday night. We expected the promotion to be picked up on the many "deal" websites and were okay with that.

Our mistake was in thinking that we were making things better by having the promotion run for a week, instead of 2-3 days. We never would have done a 1 day promo like KFC since it makes your guests jump through too many hoops to take advantage of it.

However, by the third day it was clear that instead of making the situation better from a guest standpoint, it make it worse. It allowed the coupon to take on viral properties and spread throughout the country. It gave time for people to come back a second, third, and fourth time, which we were okay with, but it made the lines longer, not shorter.

Our biggest difficulty is that ...

Continue reading "Boston Market CEO responds about coupon promotion" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 8:52 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

So did you get a chance to redeem a coupon for a $1 Boston Market chicken meal deal?

Blogging buddy Andrea Walker and I found ourselves at a Boston Market location in Delaware at about 9:15 p.m. Friday night (I'll admit it: we were avoiding the Delaware tolls).

While we were in the parking lot, wondering whether the store would accept coupons on our smart phones, a kind stranger overheard our conversation and gave us some hard copies from a stack he had in his car.

We got on a long line and learned that that there would be a 20-minute wait for chicken, but staff was offering turkey, brisket and meatloaf instead. By the time we got up to the front, the brisket and meatloaf was gone.

I thought the turkey tasted just fine, though --- and they didn't restrict the sides to just the advertised mashed potatoes. Employees seemed to be working calmly and efficiently. 

Food seemed to be in short supply, which doesn't come as a surprise given the demand. Some  Consuming Interests readers told us they were disappointed, however ...

Continue reading "Boston Market coupon promotion a success or failure? " »

Posted by Liz Kay at 1:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (9)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

Dunkin Donuts will give members of the military a free medium coffee every Tuesday in November.

They just have to present a military ID.

The promotion is part of its "Thanks to You" initiative to recognize local heroes. The donut chain will honor police officers in December.

Posted by Andrea Walker at 12:59 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Food, Free
        

Kids of all ages can eat free on Halloween!

It's not what you're thinking. In addition to all the gorging on candy and other treats this weekend, several restaurant chains have stepped up to offer free meals to children with an adult meal purchase. Thanks to the ladies over at CouponDivas.com for the tip.

Uno Chicago Grill will offer a free make-your-own-pizzas for costumed kids, decorate-your-own-pumpkins and Craisin dried cranberry trick-or-treat snacks in addition to other activities. The hours for the promotion are 11 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.

Locations will also offer a party for adults starting at 8 p.m. with contests and other events.

Call to be sure your nearest one is participating, but up to two kids will get free meals with an adult purchase all day Halloween at Austin Grill, in addition to other fun stuff. The restaurant also offers free kids meals every Tuesday with adult purchase, as well as a movie after 6 p.m.

At Applebee's locations, the restaurants are giving trick-or-treaters coupons for a free kids meal with an adult purchase (to be redeemed at a later date). Restaurants may also have additional coupons that diners could take home and distribute themselves.

What if you're not toting small children on Oct. 31? Kids of all ages will still get free treats ...

Continue reading "Eat free or cheap on Halloween!" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 10:04 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food, Free
        

Angel Food Ministries, a nondenominational Christian organization, offers low prices on foods that are staples in many American kitchens, including meats like chicken and beef, to anyone that eats.

Here's how it works: find a host site near you, place an order for boxes of groceries, and pick up the boxes at your host site several weeks later. Here's a link to what's included in the monthly menus for their $30 signature boxes, designed to serve a family of four for a week, as well special boxes of meats or fresh produce. Each comes with recipes for what's included.

Some of the families I met also bought boxes of "convenience" meals that could be packed for a work lunch.

They also sell holiday boxes, and the order deadline for $36 Thanksgiving boxes is Oct. 28.

Anyone can take advantage of these low prices, no matter what their financial situation is like. In fact, even if you can afford groceries in a traditional store, purchasing groceries from them allows the organization to harness the power of bulk buyng, Angel Food's spokesman said. 

One woman I interviewed, Katrina Watson of Nottingham, said the program has saved her both time and money. "I wish I could show you my spreadsheet," she said, because she had taken the menu list to her supermarket and compared the prices. 

Continue reading "Cheap groceries: Angel Food Ministries" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 5:04 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

Taco Bell is giving out free Black Jack tacos after the sun goes down on Halloween night.

The giveaway is to celebrate the scary holiday as well as game three of the 2009 Major League Baseball Series.

Consumers can get one free Black Jack taco from 6 p.m. to midnight Halloween night. The Black Jack taco is a new menu item that has a black taco shell and is topped with pepper jack sauce.

And don't miss the free KFC grilled chicken giveaway on Monday, or the coupons for $1 Boston Market chicken meals through Nov. 1!  

Posted by Andrea Walker at 11:24 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Food
        

The free KFC grilled chicken is not the only cheap meal deal available today or this week!

Hungry readers with a coupon can get a full Boston Market chicken meal for only $1 through Nov. 1.

In an e-mail blast to Boston Market VIP Club members, Boston Market sent $1 coupons good for a quarter chicken, mashed potatoes and cornbread. You read correctly --- not $1 off, but $1 for the entire meal!

Popular coupon sites such as FatWallet.com have posted the coupon already, but watch this post. We will update it later with a direct link to the coupon that you can print out yourself.

UPDATED: Click this link to download the $1 Boston Market chicken meal coupons. Only one coupon can be redeemed per person, per visit.

UPDATED again: While you're enjoying your free chicken and planning your cheap chicken meals, don't miss the free Black Jack tacos from Taco Bell on Halloween.

One more update: Don't miss free food on Halloween, including national chains that are offering free kids meals with an adult purchase! 

Final update: What did you think of Boston Market's $1 chicken meal coupon promotion? Did you get some cheap food, or did stores run out?

Posted by Liz Kay at 11:07 AM | Permalink | Comments (23)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

So who is going to brave the fast-food marketplace to take advantage of KFC's free grilled chicken offer today?

As we told you last week, the Colonel is offering a free piece of KFC grilled chicken to anyone who walks through its doors today (Monday, Oct. 26). 

Just to review, the store gets to pick what piece you get, and it's only one piece per customer.

Cary D. said he was going. Who else is joining him?

UPDATED: Don't miss more cheap chicken! Get coupons for $1 Boston Market chicken meals here.

UPDATED again: If you're getting free chicken today, don't miss getting a free Black Jack taco from Taco Bell on Halloween!

Posted by Liz Kay at 10:43 AM | Permalink | Comments (5)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

It's a stimulus program that even the kids can enjoy!

A number of local dentists' offices are hosting Halloween Candy Buyback programs to encourage trick-or-treaters to take it easy with the sweet stuff, as @juliemore told us in today's paper. 

The dentists usually pay about $1 per pound of candy. Some also give away freebies such as fun toothbrushes to encourage kids to brush after enjoying the rest of their holiday haul.

Check the Halloween Candy Buyback Web site for locations near you, and call participating dentists for more information.

The treats will be sent by Operation Gratitude to troops serving overseas.

(photo: Associated Press)

Posted by Liz Kay at 8:28 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

A recent survey of Baltimore residents revealed some intriguing stats about shopping patterns within the city.

According to the University of Baltimore poll, commissioned by Mayor Sheila M. Dixon's office,

Shopping trends revealed that most - 46 percent - leave the city when they want to buy consumer goods. Less than 1 percent said they shop online. Dixon wants more stores to open and pointed to her efforts lobbying retailers such as Filene's Basement to stay in the city.

Grocery stores, though, appear to be available, with 78 percent saying they live near a "well-stocked" grocery store.

Retail reporter Andrea Walker said that the supermarket data follows national trends. Generally, most people buy groceries near their homes. Also, more supermarkets have opened in Baltimore, giving people more options.

And, she points out, it's not surprising how many people head to the counties to shop because there are more choices. Let's face it, there aren't any traditional department stores within the city limits --- Filene's Basement is more of an off-price, discount store --- and only one Walmart and Target. 

But the overall shopping patterns are pretty fascinating when broken down by race.

Continue reading "Where do you shop? " »

Posted by Liz Kay at 4:18 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food, Shopping
        

You can save on food by trying store brands at the supermarket, as we've told you before.

That philosophy can help you out when buying in bulk at a warehouse club like Costco, according to this Hawaii Star-Bulletin article I found via consumerworld.org.

Costco's Kirkland store brands have fared well against national brands in tests by Consumer Reports, and the savings can be significant because the retailer, like supermarkets, doesn't have to spend extra money marketing its products.

According to the story, they also reap savings through efficient packaging that also leads to lower prices:

Continue reading "Store brands cheaper at warehouse clubs, too" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 9:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

Restaurant critic Elizabeth Large has noted a trend over at her blog Dining@Large that is intriguing.

Apparently some restaurants offer surveys that come with rewards --- as in savings on future meals.

It's funny, because Community Coordinator Maryann had just told me that she was encouraged to fill out a survey after a recent meal at P.F. Chang's, and she received a 10 percent off coupon for her trouble. UPDATED: Actually it's a 10 percent off card for EVERY MEAL until the end of the year, Maryann said.

I'm also constantly amazed by the mile-long receipts at some drugstores, usually inviting us to fill out a survey to be entered in some sort of sweepstakes.

To tell you the truth, even if there is the promise of a reward, I'm always a little reluctant to fill out a survey ... 

Continue reading "Survey for savings: more Cheap Trick Thursday" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 1:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

My colleague Lorraine Mirabella found out today that construction on a 144,000-square-foot Wegmans Food Markets store in Abingdon will begin Thursday.

It is slated to open in the spring of 2011.

The grocer will anchor a retail and office center planned for the intersection of Box Hill Corporate Drive and Woodsdale Road, near I-95 in Harford County in a complex called the Boulevard at Box Hill.

Wegmans now has one Maryland store in Hunt Valley that is of similar size at 140,000 square feet. The grocer is also building in Columbia in Howard County and would like to build others in Maryland. A chain spokeswoman had told The Baltimore Sun that it selected the Harford County site in part because of the area’s expected influx of residents who will work at or near Aberdeen Proving Ground as part of base realignment.

Developer Ward Properties is starting the first phase of the Boulevard at Box Hill, including the Wegmans, two free-standing restaurants and a free-standing bank. Besides the grocer, known for its gourmet offerings, the center is expected to eventually include more than 450,000 square feet of stores, 50,000 square feet of restaurants and 88,000 square feet of office space, said Mackenzie Retail LLC, which is handling the center’s leasing.

Posted by Andrea Walker at 3:11 PM | Permalink | Comments (9)
Categories: Food, Shopping
        

Try a cup of Starbucks new VIA Ready-Brew instant coffee today through Monday at all locations as part of the VIA Ready-Brew Taste Challenge.

They want to see if you can taste the difference between the instant variety and the regularly brewed stuff. In exchange, you'll get either a gift card for a free tall brewed coffee --- or, if you're sold on VIA, $1 off a 3-pack or 12-pack of the Ready Brew.

The coupon for the free coffee must be redeemed on a future visit, by the way.

Thanks to Matt Brown over at In Good Faith for the tip.

 (photo: Associated Press)

Posted by Liz Kay at 11:59 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food, Free
        

Just because the calender says summer is officially over doesn't mean you can't still get your ice cream kick.

Carvel and Cold Stone Creamery are giving away free ice cream today. Carvel is giving away free Oreo Lil Rounders, an ice cream sandwich made with Oreos, from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. It is part of their customer appreciation day.

Cold Stone Creamery is having its 8th annual "World's Largest Ice Cream Social" from 5 p.m. to 8 p.m.  Give a donation to the Make a Wish Foundation and receive a free 3 oz. serving of Jack's Creation ice cream - sweet cream ice cream topped with brownie chunks, rainbow sprinkles and carmel.

(photo courtesy of getty images)

Posted by Andrea Walker at 5:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Food
        

Dannon has reached a settlement in a class action lawsuit filed over misleading advertising on its Activia and DanActive lines of yogurt, according to the Associated Press.

The health claims indicated that the yogurt's bacteria would help with digestion or with the immune system.

As part of the settlement, the White Plains, N.Y. company does not admit any wrongdoing but will create a $35 million fund to reimburse qualified consumers up to $100 for products purchased.

If you purchased either Activia or DanActive products since they were introduced in 2006 or 2007, you should sign up to receive a Dannon Activia/DanActive claim form.

Continue reading "Dannon settles class action suit over Activia health claims" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 2:02 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Consumer protection, Food
        

At Boston Market, now TWO kids can eat free with an adult purchase of $6 or more.

This is very different from most kids' meal deals, which usually only offer one free kids' meal per adult purchase. However, the Boston Market promotion recognizes that nearly a third of American families are headed by a single parent, and more than 20 percent of families have three or more children, according to statistics cited by the restaurant.

So, now through October 31, buying an adult meal gets you two free kids' meals as well at all Boston Market locations nationwide.

No coupons are required, but the children must be present. Meals cost $3.79 or $4.29 and include entree, small side, cornbread and beverage. 

And, if you buy a family meal, get FOUR free kids meals on top of that. Sounds like enough food to feed families of Duggar-like proportions.

Posted by Liz Kay at 11:32 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

Some grocery chains, such as Whole Foods, are weighing whether to continue to cash paychecks or to accept personal checks as payment, according to the Los Angeles Times.

These days customers have a number of choices of ways to pay for their food bills, including credit or debit cards. ATMs have become ubiquitous, and some larger supermarkets even house bank branches within their stores, making it easier for consumers to handle financial errands in places other than the checkout line.

And then, I know some people complain that it seems longer when someone ahead of you pays by check ... and time is money when it comes to retail, especially given how many Consuming Interests readers say they would abandon cart if lines are too long to be worth the wait.

How would a grocery store ban on accepting or cashing personal checks affect you? 

Posted by Liz Kay at 2:51 PM | Permalink | Comments (9)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

Part of the problem with recalls is that few people hear about them. Whether we're talking about a snow globe that doubles as a firestarter or contaminated peanut products, getting the word out about potentially dangerous products has been a huge challenge.

Now, several federal agencies have combined their resources to redesign FoodSafety.gov, a one-stop shop for lots of information about recalls and alerts as well as how to handle food properly.

Check out the site to sign up for e-mail updates or RSS feeds about food recalls. You can also go to this centralized location to file complaints about potential health hazards in food, as well. 

Posted by Liz Kay at 11:32 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Consumer safety, Food
        

Ride the light rail on Sunday for free and get a free McDonald's burger too.

The Maryland Transit Authority and Baltimore area McDonald's are teaming up to host the "Angus Try Free, Ride Free" commuter program that day.

From 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., show up at any light rail and buy a one-way ticket and it will be free. Coupons for a free Angus Third Pounder burger will also be given out at each stop.

Posted by Andrea Walker at 4:01 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Food
        

Free samples are one way to save some cash. Rather than risk your own cash to taste a new snack or see whether a new product is right for you.

There are a number of sites that list sources of free samples --- often directing readers to manufacturers' sites to enter their mailing addresses to take advantage of the offer.

For example, right now you can pick up some free ...

Continue reading "Free samples: Cheap Trick Thursday" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 9:05 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

Restaurant.com is marking 99 hours of savings starting today in honor of Sept. 9, 2009 (9/9).

Get 90 percent off the site's restaurant gift certificates through September 13.

Here's how it works: Restaurant.com normally sells gift certificates for discounted restaurant meals at participating restaurants, such as a gift certificate worth $100 for $40. Now, they cost only a tenth of the original price --- $4!

UPDATE: Just enter the code "NINETY" at checkout to see the discount applied to your order.

Of course, it's important to pay attention to the caveats ... 

Continue reading "Restaurant.com coupons --- 90 percent off!" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 3:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

Starbucks is having a "treat recepit" promotion through Sept. 28. Bring in a receipt from a purchase made before 2 p.m. and get any Grande iced beverage for $2 after 2. p.m.

The folks at Starbucks also have other tips for saving on the gourmet coffee. Get a refill for 50 cents. If you're a registered Starbucks card member refills are free. Card members also get free coffee on their birthday.  Bring in your own cup and save 10 cents. Instead of a cafe latte order a caffe mistro, which is a coffee with steamed milk, and save 85 cents.

The company, which has seen its sales drop as consumers cut back on discretionary spending, also recently announced it was lowering prices on its simpler drinks and raising them on more elaborate drinks.

Posted by Andrea Walker at 11:21 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Food
        

Boston Market is discounting its bigger meals by 50 percent this weekend.

Go to the Web site to get a Boston Market coupon for 50 percent off family meals or market feasts. The deal is valid from September 5 through 7.

Family meals for three to six people normally range in price from $20 to nearly $40, according to the menu on the site.

The site also has other coupons listed under its "menu" tab, such as $2 off a $10 purchase, which expires on Oct. 4. (Click on "menu" for the drop-down list of other options such as coupon.)

UPDATE: Don't miss this offer for TWO free kids' meals with an adult purchase at Boston Market, valid through Oct. 31. 

Posted by Liz Kay at 9:22 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Food
        

More consumers are trading down to store brands to save money during the recession and Consumer Reports found they're not giving up taste or quality to do it.

The magazine did a blind taste test of 29 store-brand foods and found that 23 tasted as good as, or better than, national brands.

For instance, Consumer Reports tasters preferred Archer Farms Chewy Soft Baked cookies, a Target store brand, to similar products by Pepperdige Farm. It liked Kirkland Signature Organic Medium Salsa by Cotsco over Old El Paso and Great Value Whipped Topping by Walmart to that by Kraft.

 “Our tests should erase any lingering doubts that store-brand packaged goods aren’t at least worth a try," Tod Marks, senior project editor, Consumer Reports Shopping, said in a statement. "In many cases, you’ll save money without compromising on quality.”

Consumer Reports said its test also found 19 other store-brand foods that tasted just as good—albeit a bit different— as their name brand competitor. Duncan Hines Family Style Chewy Fudge and Target’s Market Pantry Fudge brownies, and Grey Poupon and Publix’s GreenWise Market Organic mustard are just a few items on store shelves locked in a taste test tie, the magazine said.

The store-brand foods that Consumer Reports tested cost an average of 27 percent less than big-name counterparts—about as much as consumers will find across all product categories, according to industry experts.

The biggest price difference was 35 cents per ounce for Costco’s vanilla extract vs. $3.34 for McCormick’s.

Consumer Reports says the price gaps have less to do with what goes into the package than with the research, development, and marketing costs that help build a household name.

Tasters found America’s Choice (A&P) multigrain spaghetti with omega-3 at $1.59 per box to be similar to the costlier Barilla Plus at $2.25 per box (14.5 oz for each box). Testers found the difference to be marginal; "both pastas have a mild whole-grain flavor and are quite tasty with a nice sauce," the study found.

So how many of you are trading down to private brands? Do they taste as good as the national brands? What are some of your favorites?

Posted by Andrea Walker at 6:00 PM | Permalink | Comments (4)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Food, Shopping
        

Giant Food sent out newly designed loyalty cards to its shoppers this week. When you use it for the first time you get 5 percent off your entire bill.

If you're wondering what prompted the generosity, it's part of yet another new marketing campaign by the retailer to offer its shoppers better value. As part of the new initiative, the grocer will double the number of items it puts on sale each week. The grocer will also introduce new shelf tags and signs in the store.

The push is the latest by area grocers competing for consumers who are watching their spending because of the recession. Earlier this month, Safeway announced it was slashing pricing on thousands of items. Giant began cutting prices on items in every department two years ago.

Posted by Andrea Walker at 10:11 AM | Permalink | Comments (13)
Categories: Food, Shopping
        

It isn't what you think.

Most people might assume that new cars, pretty clothes or a fancy house with all the trimmings could make them feel satisfied with life.

However, researchers have found that giving to charity, buying things for others and investing in experiences like vacations or performances makes people happier than any of these trinkets, according to an article in the Boston Globe's Ideas section.

Even giving a small amount, such as $5, could make a significant impact in a person's outlook, the researchers said. 

Another point: investing in vacations and dinners with friends leads to fonder memories down the road, perhaps because these indulgences let us enjoy time with others and because recollections of any unpleasant aspects of a trip --- missed flights, etc. --- seem to fade with time.

On the flip side, the Globe article also discussed how being focused on money can also less likely to invest in activities with other people.

These findings leave me with a lot of questions ... 

Continue reading "Frugal dilemmas: happiness that money can buy" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 9:27 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Food, Shopping
        

Kids 12 and under eat dinner free at IHOP restaurants nationwide with an adult meal purchase through September 13.

From 4 p.m. to 10 p.m. at IHOPs in Dundalk, Randallstown, Towson and elsewhere, kids will receive one Kid's Meal per adult meal purchase. Drinks are not included unless included on the kids menu.

(photo: Associated Press)

Posted by Liz Kay at 12:13 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

There’s a saying, “Put your money where your mouth is.” To Whole Foods’ chagrin, that’s what some of its customers are promising to do.

The grocer’s CEO John Mackey recently tackled “ObamaCare” in a Wall Street Journal article. In it, he said:

"Health care is a service that we all need, but just like food and shelter it is best provided through voluntary and mutually beneficial market exchanges. A careful reading of both the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution will not reveal any intrinsic right to health care, food or shelter. That's because there isn't any. This "right" has never existed in America.”

Mackey comes up with ideas to solve the health care problem. One of them: Change the tax law so people can make tax deductible contributions to help the millions of uninsured.

But financial blogger Peter Cohan noted that Mackey’s comments don’t sit well with his customer base, which pays premium prices at the store and believes health care is a right. A group called Boycott Whole Foods has sprung up and claims nearly 14,000 members.

Cohan writes: “Is this threat more bluster than bucks? If so, can you profit from it? As of Aug. 4, Whole Foods expected one percent sales growth for 2009 -- about $8 billion in revenues. But Whole Foods is showing improvements in its cash generation -- adding $322 million in the quarter ending this April and another $347 million in the quarter ending July.

"So unless the boycott movement takes away that one percent growth by a meaningful amount -- say $80 million -- I would not bet against the stock. Here's a quick estimate of how many boycotters it would take to make that much of a difference. If the typical Whole Foods customers spends $200 a week there, I estimate it would take only 7,700 boycotters a year to cut one percent from its sales."

Is a boycott the way to go to move corporations, like Whole Foods, to consider health care a right or is it an unfair response to Mackey exercising is right of free speech? Let's hear from you:

Posted by Eileen Ambrose at 11:44 AM | Permalink | Comments (86)
Categories: Food
        

Boston Market is offering teachers and other school employees a deal as the new school year approaches!

Teachers and school staff get 20 percent off any Boston Market restaurant or catering purchase Monday through Friday with a school ID badge. Then, on weekends, get one free meal with every meal purchase (not counting kids meals).

The offer is valid now through September 30.

Posted by Liz Kay at 9:59 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

Safeway said today that it is slashing prices on thousands of items in its stores. The reductions will be as much as 25 percent.

The grocery market is more competitive than ever and everyone is looking for ways to drive people into their stores. Wegmans and Giant have also reduced prices. Whole Foods has a newsletter that gives shoppers tips on how to shop its stores frugally.

Safeway will mark its reductions with yellow tags that show the new and old price. On some items, there will be additional savings for people who use their club cards.

(Photo: Kenneth Lam/The Baltimore Sun)

Posted by Andrea Walker at 12:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Food, Shopping
        

My first lunch box was the old metal version that by the end of the year was covered in dents from dropping it on the sidewalk so much. I think it was decorated with characters from the Happy Days tv sitcom. I eventually progressed to the nicer plastic lunchbox.

These days kids can make a fashion statement with a lunchbox. Some look as nice as a designer purse. They come with pockets for ice packets and freezable lids to keep the food cold. And for kids who don’t like their food touching, you can get lunchboxes with compartments.

Epicurious recently wrote about some of the fancier lunchboxes on the market just in time for back-to-school. Some of these may be a little pricy given the economy. But they sure are cute.

Photo courtesy of Built

Posted by Andrea Walker at 11:54 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Food, Shopping
        

I wrote earlier this week about Giant and Safeway now offering electronic coupons.

Well, Superfresh started the service today as well.

If you have one of their club cards you can log onto their website and save coupons to the card. The savings will automatically be deducted at the cash register. Enjoy.

Posted by Andrea Walker at 10:43 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Food, Shopping
        

For the first time in my life I’ve been clipping coupons as I try to become more responsible with my money. But being the disorganized person that I am, I often end up at the store and the coupons are still sitting at home on my kitchen table.

Some area grocers are now giving shoppers like me another way to get coupon savings – electronic coupons. Now you can download certain coupons onto your grocery store value card. That way when you go to pay, the cashier swipes your value card and you get the savings. Convenient.

This doesn’t mean I’m advocating people stop cutting coupons from the newspaper. Electronic coupons are still in the early stages and somewhat limited. For one, not every grocery store offers it. Giant and Safeway do, for instance. Wegmans doesn’t and has no immediate plans to change that. ShopRite is exploring the option. You’re also not going to get the same variety from electronic coupons. But electronic coupons can enhance your coupon cutting.

To get Giant’s coupons you have to sign up for their electronic monthly newsletter, which the grocer will email to you. The newsletter will include monthly coupons you can download. A recent special was three free ears of locally grown corn.

Safeway rolled out electronic coupons to all its stores in June. Safeway partners with shortscuts.com, cell fire and P&G eSaver – all providers of online coupons. Consumers log onto Safeway’s website and connect to the couponLink page. They then browse coupons on the above sites and download them to their value card.

I haven’t tried either service yet, but plan to do so. Have others out there tried electronic coupons? What do you think? Any tips for us newbies? What other advice do you have for using coupons?

Posted by Andrea Walker at 9:30 AM | Permalink | Comments (4)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Food, Shopping
        

Check out the Crab Soup Stakes today to kick off Baltimore Restaurant Week.

Try free samples of crab soup --- both vegetable and cream options --- made by Baltimore restaurants at the Harborplace Amphitheater from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday. Then vote for your favorites.

The rain is supposed to clear up in time for the event, but in case of inclement weather the tasting will move inside the Light Street Pavilion, said Downtown Partnership spokesman Michael Evitts.

(Full disclosure: seems that Sam Sessa from the Midnight Sun blog will be a celebrity judge for the contest.)

Then, as a palate cleanser, head north on Charles Street to the nut butter tasting at The Peanut Shoppe in Charles Plaza (next to the Superfresh).

From 11 a.m. to 2 p.m., the store will offer samples of the nut butters they make fresh in-house, including cashew, almond and the old standby, peanut --- as well as a mixed nut butter.

AND ... if you'd like a taste of history, here's a free option for you:

Continue reading "Downtown Baltimore freebies: Cheap Trick Thursday" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 8:36 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

Looking for some cheap eats or drinks? 600block, which compiles data on happy hours and dinner specials at bars and restaurants around Baltimore, has a new feature: SOTW, or special of the week. 

Every Tuesday, the SOTW site will feature one particularly good deal. This week, it's the tea-infused sangria at Teavolve. Try it for $5 a glass, along with other wines and $5 appetizers, which change daily.

Not interested in that particular deal? Check elsewhere on the site for deals and specials organized by type (dinner or happy hour) and by neighborhood.

Posted by Liz Kay at 11:05 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Consumer Web Site of the Week, Food
        

Surplus grocery stores, banana box retailers, dent 'n scratch or grocery clearance centers --- there are a lot of different names for retailers in the secondary grocery market.

But no matter what you call it, they all mean the same thing: low prices, though you might have to overlook a few cosmetic problems.

We first told you about the two surplus grocers in Pennsylvania last year, and the Associated Press just did a story about salvage grocers. Many carry a wide assortment of overstocks, discontinued flavors, promotional items as well as store brands from far-away supermarket chains and items in seasonal packaging.

Some products may also be close to their "best if used by" dates, a deadline set by the manufacturer for optimum quality. 

What's the advantage? You can get all these products for as much as 75 percent off what these items would cost in a traditional grocery store.

If you would like to see for yourself ...

Continue reading "Salvage grocers: another way to lower your food bill " »

Posted by Liz Kay at 5:03 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

National Cheesecake Day is upon us!

Get a free slice of cheesecake after ordering any entree on Thursday, July 30, 2009 at Morton's The Steakhouse locations in Baltimore and Annapolis. 

At The Cheesecake Factory, slices of any of the 30 flavors offered there are half-price.

And at Eli's Cheesecakes, you can enter to win a gift certificate for a free cheesecake. 

(photo: tonydolor/Flickr)

Posted by Liz Kay at 8:06 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

Get a free Baja Fresh burrito until 9 p.m. today (July 22) with the purchase of a drink. Print out the free Baja Fresh burrito coupon to get it.

The coupon is a company promotion through the Baja Fresh Facebook page. Not every location is participating --- unfortunately, Rosslyn and Clarendon in Virginia are among them.

Thanks to Sun Intern Lindsay Deutsch for spotting the tip.

Nearby locations include Timonium, Columbia, Hunt Valley, Arundel Mills/Hanover, Bel Air and Annapolis. Let us know if you find out one of these locations is not accepting the coupon!

Posted by Liz Kay at 12:22 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

Apparently it's opposites day in the snack food aisle. Or maybe those bags of Tostitos just ate from the other side of the Caterpillar's mushroom?

Continue reading "Food packages grow larger" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 10:20 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

Happy Friday, everyone ... here's some deals to enjoy:

Save $5 off $25 purchases at Walgreens on Friday, July 17, discovered via @bitofwhitt.

Save $5 off $50 purchases at Sears, and get free breakfast at Ikea on Saturday, July 18 and Sunday, July 19, courtesy of FrugalPlus.com.

On Tuesday, July 21, get a free Starbucks pastry with the purchase of any beverage, courtesy of dealnews. Just print out the Starbucks free pastry coupon or display it on a Web-enabled phone.

Of course, like the McDonalds free breakfast sandwich offer we told you about in June, a free pastry with beverage purchase deal is not that great if you don't ordinarily spend a lot of money at the coffee shop sometimes referred to as Fourbucks. It's your call.

Here's another offer:

Continue reading "Starbucks pastry & more: Friday freebies and deals" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 8:08 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

If you're headed down to College Park next week and you like bagels you might want to stop by the new Einstein Bros. Bagels.

The restaurant is giving free bagels for a year to 100 people. To get the deal you have to be one of the first 100 people in line at their new store at 10280 Baltimore Ave. in College Park on July 24.

You have to be at least 18 with an ID to participate. Do that and you'll get coupons for one free Breakfast Sandwich a week for a year. You sure better like bagels for that.

Residents in the area will also get coupons in the mail for other free food.

<i>Don't miss other free offers in the near future, including free McDonalds McCafe Mocha coffee drinks on Mondays through Aug. 3 and free chocolate coupons from Mars --- register for one any Friday through September. --- Liz </i>

Posted by Andrea Walker at 10:31 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

One more guest post from Andrea K. Walker:

Saturday is 7-Eleven’s 82nd birthday and the convenience store chain is giving away free Slurpees Saturday to celebrate.  The chain is giving away 5 million of the 11.77.11-ounce frozen drinks --- a nice summer treat for cash-strapped consumers.

Thanks to Sun community coordinator Maryann James for the tip. And if you're still in the mood for something chilly, don't miss free McDonalds McCafe Mocha drinks on Mondays through August 3.

(photo: Lloyd Fox/Baltimore Sun)

Here are some random Slurpee facts from the company: 

Continue reading "Free Slurpees on 7/11" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 1:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

Looks like something is finally about to get started on the much-anticipated Wegmans super-sized, gourmet supermarket coming to Columbia soon, reports colleague Larry Carson, who covers Howard County.

Crews began erecting fencing Friday around a large warehouse in east Columbia where the 160,000 square foot Wegmans supermarket and parking garage are to be built, Larry reports.

Jo Natale, a company spokeswoman in Rochester, N.Y., told Larry that demolition of the warehouse, last used as a filming studio for the Baltimore-based HBO series "The Wire," should be complete by August’s end.

The firm has also applied for a grading permit, Natale said, to prepare the site for construction.

"There is no construction schedule or opening date yet," she said, adding that the store will not be ready to open in 2010. Plans for building a Wegmans on this site, on Snowden River Parkway have been discussed since 2004.

Wegmans already has a store in Hunt Valley, and plans to build several more in Maryland.

Posted by Liz Kay at 12:35 PM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Food, Shopping
        

Get a free McDonalds McCafe Mocha on Mondays at participating McDonalds locations through August 3!

That's right, stop into any participating McDonalds location between 7 a.m. and 7 p.m. on July 13, July 20, July 27 or Aug. 3 and enjoy a free McCafe 8 oz. Mocha or 7 oz. Iced Mocha while supplies last.

Thanks to intrepid business reporter @hanahcho for the tip! 

The McDonalds site does not list which locations are participating, and warns that the offer is only valid while supplies last, so please report back here when you find Golden Arches that recognize the deal.

And if you can't wait utnil Monday, get a free Slurpee drink from 7-Eleven on Saturday ... 7/11.

Posted by Liz Kay at 10:08 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

To kick off DIY@Artscape, on Tuesday, July 14, there will be a free screening of Handmade Nation, a documentary exploring do-it-yourself culture.

The free Handmade Nation screening starts at 7 p.m. at the University of Baltimore auditorium, 21 W. Mount Royal Ave. A question-and-answer session with the director will follow the 65-minute film. 

Discovered via The Broken Plate Company via Baltimore DIY Squad.

Then on Thursday ... 

Continue reading "Free movies next week! Food, Inc., Handmade Nation" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 3:56 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food, Greenies
        

The restaurants at the Tremont hotels --- Tug's Bar and Grille, the Grand Cafe and the Plaza Deli --- will host a complimentary wine and cheese tasting from 3 p.m. to 5 p.m. Thursday, July 9.

The restaurants and cafes plan to offer similar events every Tuesday and Thursday in July, according to the Downtown Partnership.

Posted by Liz Kay at 9:03 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

Costco has reached a settlement agreement with consumers who were short-changed on their membership renewals, with agreements that expired fewer than 12 months from the re-up date, according to Consumer Reports.

Basically, consumers would come in to the warehouse retailer months after their memberships had lapsed and sign up for another year. But the company would back-date the new agreement to when the original membership ended, so consumers who didn't spot the error would pay for a full annual membership that would expire in fewer than 12 months.

It's like paying to resume a subscription to a magazine and only getting 8 or 10 issues!

Under the terms of the Costco settlement agreement ...

Continue reading "Costco membership renewal fewer than 12 months long: Naughty Business of the Week" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 9:40 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food, Naughty businesses/NBotW, Shopping
        

Take $5 off online Target purchases of $50 or more with coupon via momsview.com. Valid through Saturday, June 27.

Get a free 12-oz. Seattle's Best Coffee beverage at Borders stores through July 2, via Miss Bargainista.

And sign up for a free sample of Yoplait Whips yogurt, thanks to TheSavvyShopper.

The site recommends that you try the product frozen, which forces me to ask: has anyone ever tried to freeze yogurt at home? Can it be done either in the container or is an ice cream maker necessary? Could one use the coffee can ice cream maker method?

Posted by Liz Kay at 1:33 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food, Shopping
        

Supermarkets aren't the only place you have to watch out for expired products.

We told you last week about the Carney Safeway stocking expired yogurt. But in early June, a survey of 20 CVS stores in the Baltimore area showed that 15 of the 20 had some sort of out-of-date products on their shelves and available for sale, including dairy products, infant formula and over-the-counter medicine.

The survey was conducted by Change to Win, a coalition of unions and workers fighting for affordable health care and retirement benefits. The group held a rally in front of a Harford Road CVS today (the second in two months) to draw attention to the problem.

However, a CVS spokesman disputed the group's findings, saying they have no way of verifying that these expired products were in fact found on their shelves. The spokesman, Mike DeAngelis, said ...

Continue reading "Expired food and drugs: Naughty Business of the Week" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 1:56 PM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Consumer safety, Food
        

Anyone spotted good deals for Father's Day?

I heard about a Boston Market coupon for a free kids' meal with any adult purchase of more than $5 (you can't use it on $5 menu items). Expires at the end of the month, so all parents could get a treat by June 30. Be sure to have the kiddies color in the picture before you turn it in.

Ah, Father's Day ... just makes me grumble. Just another excuse to peddle gifts that play up stereotypes of what dads like: electronics, golf, etc. My frugal father always says not to buy him anything, because he can select items he needs far more skillfully than I can. 

Okay, he's obviously at an extreme. But somehow ...

Continue reading "Boston Market coupon for Father's Day & other Frugal Dilemmas" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 9:03 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

Get a free McMuffin or biscuit breakfast sandwich with any McDonalds McCafe coffee drink purchase from June 22 through June 28 at McDonalds in the greater Baltimore area.

What's "greater Baltimore"? Well, it includes Anne Arundel, Baltimore, Carroll, Harford and Howard counties.

Now, here's my question: is this a good deal?

Apparently prices for these drinks may vary, mostly around $2 to $3. According to Serious Eats' McCafe review, they max out at around $4 just like that other fancy coffee retailer you've heard about.

Let's be honest: you could probably make a breakfast sandwich and a coffee at home for less money than this deal would cost you --- although not everyone has a home equipped with a cappuccino maker. Or a drive-thru.

So, please let us know what you think about this offer in the comments. Is the prospect of an Iced Mocha and a (free) Sausage biscuit sound better than scrambling your own eggs?

And what's your favorite bargain breakfast --- either purchased on the run or DIY at home? Extra credit if it's portable. 

Posted by Liz Kay at 9:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

If you got a free KFC grilled chicken coupon but have not yet received your raincheck, it will soon be in the mail, according to KFC's spokesman.

They are still processing the rainchecks and expect them all to be mailed by Friday, June 19, said Rick Maynard of KFC. That would mean they should land in your mailbox by next week, in most cases.

KFC decided to mail rainchecks after ...

Continue reading "Free KFC chicken coupon rainchecks are coming" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 9:49 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

A word to the wise: check the sell-by date of all your perishable foods before you put them in your grocery cart.

Esther Roskam has learned that you can't rely on stores to clear their shelves of dairy products past their sell-by dates.

The Parkville resident has shopped at the Safeway on Waltham Woods Road in Carney for several years. But starting in December, she noticed expired dairy products still on the shelf --- mostly her favorite Dannon Fruit on the Bottom yogurt, but sometimes even milk or buttermilk. 

Roskam spoke the store manager on duty each time she visited but never felt like it made a difference. She became concerned that the store might not be upholding other, less obvious standards.

"They’re not listening to me saying there’s expired food in their case. How do i know they’re keeping the food at the right temperature?" she asked.

Thankfully the world has dedicated consumers such as Roskam to advocate for shoppers like me who blindly pick up cheese and sour cream without a care in the world, never ensuring that the sell-by date has not passed. 

"I'm concerned for all the people shopping there who don't know what they're getting," she said.

After months of talking to the store's managers, Roskam contacted The Sun, and we called the Baltimore County Department of Environmental Protection & Resource Management, which inspects food service businesses.

Based on her complaint, a sanitarian visited on June 3 and discovered ...

Continue reading "Carney Safeway selling expired dairy products: Naughty Business of the Week" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 12:12 PM | Permalink | Comments (8)
Categories: Food, Naughty businesses/NBotW
        

It should come to no surprise that restaurant owners adjust their menus to increase check totals overall and to promote the items that bring in the most profit. We told you earlier today that when there were no dollar signs on the menu, customers spent more.

As Dave Pasegic of the Restaurant Resource Group notes, a menu ...

"is the only piece of printed advertising that you are virtually 100 percent sure will be read by the guest. Once placed in the guest’s hand, it can directly influence not only what they will order, but ultimately how much they will spend."

People don't read menus from top to bottom --- or at least, their gaze doesn't necessarily linger at the top. For example ....

Continue reading "Retail psychology of menus: the best advertising ever" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 12:54 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

Something to keep in mind before you order: restaurant patrons spent more money when menus listed prices without currency symbols, according to a study by the Cornell University School of Hospitality Research (via Consumerist).

The researchers tested how much visitors to the Culinary Institute of America's St. Andrew's restaurant in Hyde Park, N.Y. spent when menus listed prices in Arabic numerals with dollar signs, numerals without dollar signs and when the numbers were written out as words ($20 or 20 versus twenty).

They expected people would spend more when prices were listed as words, but discovered it was the currency-free label that led to customers running up the check. The researchers surmised that removing the dollar sign helped disassociate the numbers from an actual price --- discouraging them from actually doing the arithmetic in their head.

A brief survey of Baltimore restaurants shows mixed use of these symbols:

Continue reading "No dollar sign, bigger check: menu psychology" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 11:46 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

Giant supermarkets' sales have increased, after it widened its aisles, pumped up the lighting and added more technology and a wider selection of organic products to get customers to return to its stores, according to retail reporter Andrea Walker's story.

The company had initiated plans in 2008 to regain market share by adding things like hand-held scanners so people could check out as they walked through the store, as well as remote deli ordering systems.

So the sales increase is a good thing for Giant, especially after all the Giant complaints that came in last year. Readers were really disappointed with customer service, selection and more. 

The changes were enough to convince Rosemary Mountain of Baltimore to stop driving all the way to the Wegmans in Hunt Valley to get her groceries.

Then again, more people are eating at home more regularly again, as a way to save money. With that in mind, I'm wondering how technology and selection influences our perception of value ...

Continue reading "Supermarket price comparisons: where do you shop? " »

Posted by Liz Kay at 8:51 AM | Permalink | Comments (10)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

National Doughnut Day is here, and that means free doughnuts at Krispy Kreme and the Fractured Prune today. Buy a beverage at Dunkin Donuts and get a free doughnut, too.

Stuck at work or unwilling to brave the rainy weather? Don't forget to sign up for your coupon for free chocolate from Mars.

Any other purveyors of the hole-y treats offering freebies or discounts today? Please share the details!

(Photo: Jed Kirschbaum/Baltimore Sun)

Posted by Liz Kay at 8:36 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

The freebies keep on coming.

As we told you Tuesday, get a free doughnut at the Fractured Prune and Krispy Kreme on Friday, June 5, and buy a beverage to get a free doughnut at Dunkin Donuts, too.

Then, on Sat. June 6, head to your nearest participating Friendly's for free ice cream between noon and 5 p.m.

But wait there's more!

Continue reading "Free smoothies, free donuts, free ice cream! " »

Posted by Liz Kay at 9:09 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

Free doughnuts in honor of National Doughnut Day on Friday, June 6!

UPDATED: Get a free Fractured Prune doughnut  (Ocean City Sand variety) on Friday, June 6. The York Road location will have buy one, get one free doughnuts. (Thanks to Matthew for the heads up.)

Get a free Krispy Kreme doughnut at participating locations, and get a free Dunkin Donuts doughnut with purchase of a beverage. Thanks to Sun business reporter Andrea Walker for the tip.

National Doughnut Day has some historical significance ...

Continue reading "Free Friendly's ice cream and free donuts!" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 9:02 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

Add this one to the list of shrinking products: apparently propane tanks now contain less fuel although the tanks themselves remain the same size -- and the same price, according to the Associated Press.

Yes, that's right: if you're planning to buy propane to grill some meat, fish or vegetables this weekend, take a closer look at the labeling on the tank.

 Apparently ...

Continue reading "Propane grill masters fired up about less fuel in their tanks" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 9:09 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Energy/Utilities, Food, Gas prices
        

Is a Sam's Club $15 summer membership a good deal?

Shanna first told us about it last week. Sign up for the promotion by June 7. With it, you can enjoy Sam's Club deals for 100 days, which should take you through Labor Day and back-to-school shopping.

At 100 days, the seasonal membership only costs 15 cents per day. Sounds good, huh? 

Well, this sounds an awful lot like the 10-weeks-for-$10 special Sam's Club was advertising last October, which we pointed out then ... 

Continue reading "Discounts! Sam's Club summer membership, Restaurant.com" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 12:29 PM | Permalink | Comments (5)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food, Shopping
        

Two Targets in Baltimore County will start offering more fresh produce, meats and bakery items this year, according to a spokeswoman.

This is good news for fans of Target's liberal couponing policy, allowing folks to use both store coupons and manufacturers' coupons on the same item.

AND: Don't forget Target posts its store coupons online. Forget your stack at home, or don't have a printer? Just print out Target coupons at the registry kiosk before you shop. 

Posted by Liz Kay at 12:40 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

Free Haagen-Dazs ice cream from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. today (May 12) at participating locations! Use the Haagen-Dazs store locator to call your nearest shop first and see whether they are participating before you go.

Get your free scoop of the ice-cream company's "Bee-built" flavors --- designed to highlight the contributions bees make to the tasty foods we eat and to draw attention to the problem of colony collapse disorder, a problem of unknown origin that has led to significant losses in the pollinating bee population across the United States.

Wondering what this means to you? It could lead to higher food prices down the line. "About one mouthful in three in the diet directly or indirectly benefits from honey bee pollination," according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Agricultural Research Service.

Bees pollinate crops of fruit and nuts, including strawberries, almonds, coconut, pineapple and lemons (not to mention honey they produce themselves). Read more about the Haagen-Dazs Help the Honeybees campaign here.

(photo: Glenn Fawcett/Baltimore Sun)

Posted by Liz Kay at 9:07 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

Head to realchocolate.com starting at 9 a.m. every Friday through September for the Mars Real Chocolate Relief Act.

On Free Chocolate Fridays, the first 250,000 people who register will get a coupon for a free, full-size Mars chocolate bar.

APOLOGIES IN ADVANCE if the site is down; it's getting a lot of interest, as you might imagine. And before you get excited for your afternoon snack, remember it will take at least six weeks to mail the coupon to you. If you just can't wait, there's also a coupon in print editions of today's USA Today.

The promotion is an attention-grabbing way for Mars to promote its commitment to real chocolate, using only 100 percent cocoa butter, in its U.S. products.

Why is this controversial?

Continue reading "Mars: free real chocolate on Fridays " »

Posted by Liz Kay at 1:10 PM | Permalink | Comments (35)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

We all know it's cheaper to buy your own food and cook it yourself. But, if you're going to go out, it make sense to get the most value for your money.

That's why we're highlighting dinedowntownBaltimore.org as the Consumer Web Site of the Week. The site, run by the Downtown Partnership, highlights specials that can be found at Baltimore's cafes and restaurants.

For example, on Mondays this month ... 

Continue reading "Baltimore dining deals: Consumer Web Site of the Week" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 9:06 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

UPDATED: KFC says rainchecks for free grilled chicken will be mailed by Fri., June 19.

Thanks, Oprah:Free KFC grilled chicken meal coupon, for anyone with access to a printer!

Here's a tip, even if you missed The Oprah Winfrey Show: go to KFC's www.unthinkfc.com for a coupon for a free 2-piece grilled chicken meal with two sides and a biscuit.

You can print up to four coupons before 10 p.m. Wednesday, and you can redeem the coupons starting today through May 19, but NOT on May 10. Guess you'll have to find another way to treat Mom on Mother's Day.

It's the latest example of fast food joints offering cheap or even free food to get people to stop brown-bagging it and resume spending cash during the lunch hour again.

UPDATED: Readers over at Jay Hancock's blog report difficulty printing the Oprah Winfrey KFC coupons and redeeming them. What's your experience?

UPDATED: As several readers have noted, KFC is now giving customers rainchecks instead of redeeming these coupons, due to the overwhelming response. Click here to hear a statement from KFC's CEO about the free grilled chicken coupon giveaway here. 

(photo: courtesy of KFC)

Posted by Liz Kay at 3:19 PM | Permalink | Comments (111)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

$5 footlongs! $4 torpedoes! Free chicken!

With all the preaching to brown-bag your lunch, it's no wonder that fast-food restaurants have beefed up their bargain offerings?

But how are they able to make ends meet? Because they're taking away the meat -- or just the extra cheese, according to the Los Angeles Times article about cheap or free fast food offerings.

They're cutting corners ---

Continue reading "Fast food freebies: what's the catch? " »

Posted by Liz Kay at 9:06 AM | Permalink | Comments (5)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

Get your summer reading now, with great coupons from Borders and Barnes & Noble!

Bob's Deals tweeted about Borders savings --- coupons for a free 12 oz. Seattle's Best drink (not only coffee) at Borders Cafes as well as 40 percent off a Borders book purchase --- via Spoofee. The book coupon expires tomorrow (Saturday) so act fast! You've got a while on the coffee, though --- drink up through Wednesday.

And a 20 percent off Barnes & Noble coupon for online purchases has been circulating for a while, thanks to the Good Deal Gal.

Posted by Liz Kay at 10:59 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food, Shopping
        

Make your own yogurt? Bagels? Granola?

Sounds like something an enterprising Martha Stewart acolyte might attempt, but numerous bloggers and writers have tested and confirmed that recipes for some of the basic prepared foods that Americans have grown accustomed to purchasing already made could be constructed from scratch.

And of course, the question isn't whether these items could be made at home ... 

Continue reading "Make your own food: Cheap Trick Thursday" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 9:04 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

The Pikesville Target was cleared to reopen Friday morning after Baltimore County environmental protection inspectors determined that the store had resolved a severe rodent infestation.

WBAL-TV reported Thursday that the Target had closed due to rodents.

Baltimore County environmental protection officials ordered the Reisterstown Road store to close Wednesday after an anonymous (anonymouse? hee) tip about the problem led them to discover rodent carcasses and droppings throughout the store, said Jonas Jacobson, the Baltimore County environmental protection director.  Pet and human food containers were also chewed open, he  said.

Continue reading "Pikesville Target to reopen after rodent infestation: update" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 10:04 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Consumer safety, Food, Naughty businesses/NBotW
        

We've all done it --- stood at the fridge poking at some mysterious product, wondering how long it's been in there and whether it's still good to eat.

On one hand, you don't want to waste food you spent good money to buy, but you also don't to risk the health of your family or yourself by serving it to them.

Still in doubt? Why not check the recommendations over at StillTasty.com? 

Touted by such fine sites as Consumerist and Unclutterer, StillTasty offers guidelines for when to keep some shelf-stable product and when to toss that aging dairy product.

And while you're at it ...

Continue reading "StillTasty.com tells you when food is spoiled: Consumer Web Site of the Week" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 6:09 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food, Greenies
        

Grocery auctions are the newest way bargain hunters in states like Texas, Ohio and Pennsylvania are saving on food, according to the Associated Press.

We told you before about salvage grocers up in Pennsylvania that deal in products that are close to or beyond their manufacturers' suggested "best-by" date, which ensures best quality but not food safety. These stores also deal in items discontinued due to seasonal or promotional packaging, bulk foods and more. 

Now, some salvage dealers have gone a step further ...

Continue reading "Bid on your dinner at grocery auctions" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 8:22 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Economy, Food, Shopping
        

Free ice cream! Get a coupon for a free three-scoop sundae from Friendly's by signing up for their Best Friends of Friendly's Club.

I'm still waiting for mine to arrive in my inbox, so I can't tell you yet whether there are caveats such as a minimum purchase.

The registration has a nice feature: you can indicate how you'd prefer to receive coupons and information --- via e-mail, snail mail or as a text message on your phone.

Thanks to the Free Stuff Times for sharing this offer.

Posted by Liz Kay at 10:57 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

Double-coupon savings at Kmart through Saturday, March 28! Check the Kmart Web site to ensure your local store circular includes the special.

Save twice as much as you would redeeming coupons at other stores by doubling them up to and including $2. Thanks to Money Saving Madness for the heads up.

Posted by Liz Kay at 1:24 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Food, Shopping
        

The Sun's Taste section this week suggested many good ways to use up excess ingredients in your kitchen or pantry before they go to waste --- ideas for things as universal as bananas and stuff that you might have bought for just a recipe or two, such as coconut milk or capers.

Of course, the best method to avoid waste is to plan your meals so you don't have ingredients lying around without a plan for them ... but bunches of cilantro only come in one size, whether your recipe calls for 1 tablespoon or 1/2 cup of tightly packed leaves.

Another option ...

Continue reading "Cheap Trick Thursday: eliminate food waste:" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 10:56 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

Snap up this free trial for Sam's Club, one day only, courtesy of Allstate, discovered via A Steal of a Deal. Register to receive the e-mailed coupon, which expires March 31.

But don't go crazy: we've told you before to watch what you spend at warehouse stores --- avoid the impulse buys!

Here are Consumer Reports' tips on warehouse store shopping.

Posted by Liz Kay at 12:55 PM | Permalink | Comments (6)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Food, Shopping
        

Baltimoresun.com now has a way to compare grocery store sales online. The Grocery Guide allows you to browse and compare supermarket circulars from around the region and create a personalized grocery list.

It's an option to start your meal-planning and coupon-stacking. You can click the "details" button to get a price history for the product.

Two things you should know: 

Continue reading "Compare supermarket circulars online" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 7:28 AM | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Budgeting, Cheap/Frugal, Food, Shopping
        

Readers, this week we're looking for cheap wine events and sales: inexpensive tasting flights and discounts off cases or other deals that help stretch your wining-and-dining dollar.

Free or cheap wine tastings are an inexpensive entertainment option that can be educational for your mind and your palate. And, a quality bargain wine found at a local store or winery would be an excellent accompaniment to a meal at home.

Please share your favorite destinations for oenological research,

Continue reading "Seeking cheap tricks: free or cheap wine tastings & bargains" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 5:04 AM | Permalink | Comments (7)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food, Shopping
        

Kids eat free in some unexpected places that readers pointed out.

Cici's Pizza, a buffet restaurant, has free and low-cost meals for kids, recommended Judith. This Motley Fool article on free kids meals confirms that deal, with free meals for kids under 4 and reduced prices for ages 5 to 10.

The article points out some logical advice: you'll have better luck finding deals mid-week when restaurant business is slower, like Tuesdays. Also, watch out for minimum purchases of adult meals, drinks or other exceptions.

I'd add that some chain restaurants that operate franchises may not honor deals offered in other parts of the country, or the rules may have changed. Verify to see if the location is still offering the deal ahead of time.

If you're up in Harford County, CR Wings in Bel Air serves $1.99 kids meals all day Sundays, said loyal reader Holly. 

And thanks, Drew, for the tip about ... 

Continue reading "Free kids meals & cheap children's grub: Cheap Trick Thursday" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 9:03 AM | Permalink | Comments (2)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

With 28 days without spending (okay, little spending) under his belt thanks to his No-Buy Month spending challenge, Brent contemplates the savings on the horizon. --- lfk.

I crawled across the finish line of my No-Buy Month not with an overwhelming urge to reach for my wallet but relief that I'm nearing the end of a nagging cold. I spent $20 visiting the doctor Friday only to have him tell me that I did not have the flu. I had no appetite nor energy until Sunday night.

Thankfully, my condition made it easy to not spend money. The only thing I overindulged in was time on my couch. It did give me a chance to think about what I will do going forward now that February is over.

However, I'm starting off all wrong. I ordered from Paul Chen's Hong Kong restaurant last night and ate at The Sun's cafeteria today, already dropping about $20. 

But I have a plan ... 
 

Continue reading "No-Buy Month Spending Challenge: the month in review" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 4:37 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

Milk prices worldwide are decreasing to reduced demand and increased production overseas, and Maryland's dairy farmers are worried, my colleague Scott Calvert reported last week.

But this appears to be spelling some relief for consumers, in Baltimore at least.

It was just 2007 when the average price of a gallon of milk crested higher than $4. But now, average retail prices for a gallon of whole milk have declined, according to the USDA's Agricultural Marketing Service, which surveys milk prices in selected cities nationwide.

According to their assesment, average prices for a gallon of whole milk decreased to $3.04 in Baltimore. Reduced-fat milk (2 percent) decreased to $3.16.

Check out these charts below. 

Continue reading "Milk prices decline" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 11:45 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

If you're trying to stretch your dining-out dollars, Restaurant.com is a great option --- just buy a certificate off the site and apply its value to the price of your meal.

It's an even better option, however, when you take advantage of the 80 percent off coupon code "DINE" for Restaurant.com, which is valid through Feb. 28.

We've told you about Restaurant.com before, but the certificates are good for up to a year, but just be sure to read the fine print and see what you're signing up for -- there are often restrictions about the minimum food purchase and an automatic gratuity applied toward your meal.

Posted by Liz Kay at 6:07 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

Arby's is giving away coupons for a free Roast Burger with the purchase of a drink at participating locations.

Here's the Arby's store locator to find a location near you.

On the other end of the food spectrum, you can sign up for a free Kashi frozen entree coupon through March 15, courtesy of Buxr.  

Posted by Liz Kay at 8:00 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

We told you last week to prepare for free pancakes today at IHOP (last item). There's still a few hours left to take advantage of this offer!

Then today I discovered via Consumerist that you could also sign up for a coupon for a free Quiznos sub sandwich in exchange for agreeing to receive marketing e-mails.

And finally, Kmart stores are doubling coupons (up to $2 value) through Sat. Feb. 28 in certain communities. Frugal in Virginia recommends checking your local Kmart circular online to see if the offer is listed. 

Posted by Liz Kay at 4:31 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

Ever open some prepared food, like a TV dinner, and compare it with the picture on the box?

Hopefully the contents bear some similarity to the image on the packaging, but often it does not. 

In this week's amusing Consumer Web Site of the Week, we bring you a German site discovered via Consumerist that places images of food packages side-by-side with the contents inside. (Here's an English version with all the food packaging and contents photos on one page.)

Then, continue on ...

Continue reading "Food photography lies and reality: CWSotW" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 1:54 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Consumer Web Site of the Week, Food
        

Baltimore Restaurant Week will continue through Feb. 8 at some participating eateries, according to the event Web site.

Readers of Dining@Large, The Sun's restaurant blog, have been comparing notes on Restaurant Week menus, but I'm curious where, if anywhere, the discerning Consuming Interests community has been spending its money. 

The restaurants prepare specially priced three-course lunch and dinner menus, at $20.08 and $30.08 respectively. Many menus are posted online so you can read the selections ahead of time.

Anyone making a restaurant week decision has to weigh a lot of factors ... 

Continue reading "Restaurant Week extends through Feb. 8 " »

Posted by Liz Kay at 10:57 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

Free stuff abounds on the Intertubes!

Audible.com offers a free download of The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People, an offer discovered via Consumerist.

And get a free breakfast at Ikea this weekend (Friday, Jan. 30, Saturday, Jan. 31 and Sun. Feb. 1). The coupon at the bottom of the page is good for a free small breakfast and small coffee until 10:30 a.m. Thanks, FrugalFrank (via MoneySavingMom, via DealBetty)

No worries if you oversleep, though ...

Continue reading "Free! Audible.com, Ikea breakfast, small business software and tools" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 3:05 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food, Technology
        

So, more Cheap Trick Thursday: workplace columnist Hanah Cho tipped me off to an intriguing offer from McDonalds --- one free medium McCafe coffee from 5 to 8 a.m. every day in February, at Golden Arches locations that sport fancy McCafes selling fancy coffee beverages.

Hanah spotted a commercial advertising this deal, but unfortunately I have not been able to find any information online stating definitively which McDonalds in our area are participating or even which have McCafes at all.

There appears to be some debate online about which U.S. regions will have franchises offering the free McCafe coffee in February deal.

Do you have a McCafe near you? Please share addresses and information so your fellow readers can enjoy this as well.

UPDATE: Looking for more free McDonalds McCafe coffee? Click the link for more details, because Baltimore-area McDonalds will be offering freebies in April!

UPDATED AGAIN: More <a xhref="http://tr.im/rKN5">free McDonalds McCafe Mochas, every Monday</a> through Aug. 3, 2009!

Posted by Liz Kay at 1:07 PM | Permalink | Comments (18)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food, Gas prices
        

Coupons can save you money on food and products you need if you use them effectively.

Whether you clip 'n save the discounts from your newspaper or print them online coupons, you're bound to find the promise of savings for at least one or two items that is already on your shopping list.

But wait! you say. Aren't store brands always cheaper? And aren't coupons only offered for unhealthy prepared foods?

Not necessarily, on both accounts --- especially if you follow the strategy of frequent commenter and coupon maven Holly, who has shared her Target coupon strategies with Consuming Interests readers in the past.

As a mother of young children, she saves a lot with diaper and baby wipes coupons. And even if you make all your food from scratch, there are plenty of coupons for personal care items such as shampoo, soap, deodorant, toothbrushes and the like ... stuff most of us don't live without.

Holly "stacks" her manufacturer's coupons, waiting until an item goes on sale or when a store like Target offers a coupon itself. Then, she uses both the store discount and redeems her coupons for even greater savings. Those discounts can make name brand products even cheaper than store brands.

She recently e-mailed me when she discovered ...

Continue reading ""Stack" coupons for maximum benefit" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 10:57 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food, Shopping
        

All right, Dining@Large posted it first, but I heard it from workplace columnist Hanah Cho (she's a super shopper as well): free coffee and breakfast samples at Panera Bread today (Wednesday).

If you've already scraped the ice off your car or find yourself within walking --- I mean skating -- distance of  one of these bakery-cafes, stop in for your free coffee and a taste of their new grilled breakfast sandwiches and granola parfait.

Also, some locations will be collecting money for the company's Operation Dough-Nation^® Community Breadbox^TM program. Those locations will match the donated money, up to $250, and give it to local programs.

(photo: Chiaki Kawajiri/Baltimore Sun)

Posted by Liz Kay at 10:06 AM | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food
        

This has been a week of commemorating historic achievements of our past and contemplation on how our lives will change in the future --- socially, politically, economically.

But one group wants to set our country's financial future back on track by returning to ways of the past.

As I first discovered via Frugal Babe, the Templeton Foundation Press is trying to revive National Thrift Week, a celebration of all things frugal that started in 1916 when our country was on the brink of war and continued through the 1960s.

The Library of Congress's study of the National Thrift Movement points out that the movement was sponsored by groups you might expect, such as the Boy Scouts of America and the American Home Economics Association, as well as some you might not, such as the National Retail Dry Goods Association, the U.S. Chamber of Commerce and the Associated Advertising Clubs of the World.

The week was tied to ...

Continue reading "Cheap Trick Thursday: Thrift Week" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 6:07 AM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food, Greenies, Shopping
        

More and more contaminated peanut butter products are being yanked from the shelves this week after a wave of reports of salmonella across the country that has killed six people and sickened hundreds of others, according to the Food and Drug Administration and news reports.

The products all stem from contamination at a Peanut Corporation of America plant in Georgia. But don't toss that jar of Jif in your cupboard --- the plant sells peanut paste to companies that make peanut butter products, such as the Austin Quality Foods Toasty Crackers with Peanut Butter, or institutional quantities of peanut butter that go to nursing homes and other places. It doesn't sell the jars that go on supermarket shelves.

The FDA is maintaining a searchable database of contaminated peanut butter products for consumers.

Companies such as General Mills and supermarkets such as Safeway have recalled products, and yesterday Clif Bars and Luna Bars made with peanut butter were the latest to be recalled, in the following flavors and "best by" dates:

Continue reading "Naughty Business of the Week: peanut butter recalls" »

Posted by Liz Kay at 3:06 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Food, Naughty businesses/NBotW, Recalls
        

Here's a heads up if you live within proximity of Weis Markets:

The Pennsylvania-based chain, which has eight stores in Perry Hall, Laurel, Pasadena, Woodstock, Hampstead, Westminster and Odenton, has lowered and frozen prices on thousands of everyday grocery items through April 1.

According to Consumer Reports' Tightwad Tod, the stores actually discounted prices before they were frozen, shaving 50 cents or more off items as basic as chicken breasts, cereal and more. 

Posted by Liz Kay at 2:26 PM | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Cheap/Frugal, Food