San Diego to Require Grocery Stores Make Digital Coupons Available in Paper Form

If passed after a second reading, the ordinance would be the first of its kind in the nation. Grocers warn it may not benefit consumers.

A promotional price label at a Smart & Final store in San Diego on March 24, 2025. Jane Yang/The Epoch Times

SAN DIEGO—The San Diego City Council voted 8–0 at its March 24 council meeting in favor of an ordinance requiring grocery stores that offer digital deals to make paper coupons with identical pricing available to all consumers.

The ordinance also requires grocery stores to clearly label the discount where the items are offered for sale, and to place a sign or notice at a conspicuous location informing customers of their rights to physical coupons.