How Promotions Are Evolving and What It Means for Your Strategy
As economic pressure continues to shape shopper behavior, promotions remain one of the most powerful levers for influencing purchase decisions. But the rules have changed.
Today’s consumers expect more than just discounts—they expect relevance, ease, and value. And the data shows the industry is responding.
In this comprehensive analysis, Inmar Intelligence uncovers how coupon distribution, redemption, and promotional strategies are shifting and what brands and retailers must do to stay competitive in 2026.
This analysis is available in three different versions to align with your business focus:
- Total Grocery Industry
- Food Brands
- Non-Food Brands
Download the full report to access the latest industry benchmarks and insights.
What You’ll Learn in the Report
The Shift to Digital-First Promotions
Digital coupons continue to gain momentum, with formats like Load-to-Card driving both distribution and redemption growth. At the same time, traditional formats like FSIs are steadily declining as the industry moves toward more targeted approaches.
Why “Less” Distribution Is Driving More Impact
Overall coupon distribution declined significantly—down to 34 billion in 2025 from 53.1 billion the year prior, signaling a move away from mass scale toward precision targeting. The result? Smaller volumes, but stronger engagement.
Stabilization in Redemption
While total redemption volume eased slightly (0.81B in 2025 vs. 0.87B in 2024), engagement remains elevated compared to historical lows—pointing to a more mature, stable promotional landscape.
The Growing Importance of Perceived Value
Higher face values, simplified purchase requirements, and relevant offers are now critical drivers of redemption. In fact, average coupon face value continues to rise, reinforcing that meaningful savings, not just availability, drives action.
What’s Inside the Report
- Coupon distribution & redemption trends
- Breakdown by promotional method (digital vs. paper)
- Average face value trends and purchase requirements
- Seasonal distribution and redemption insights
- Deep dive into evolving shopper engagement drivers
Get the Full 2026 Analysis
Fill out the form to access all three versions of this report and uncover the trends shaping the future of promotions.