What can I do if a business won't accept a valid coupon?

I know it's not a big deal, but it's the principle of the matter. I just went bowling because we had a coupon for buy 2 games and get 2 free. The coupon is totally valid and does not state any restrictions apart from not being valid on holidays (which today is not). So, after I play my two games and go to pay, they tell me they do not accept coupons on Fridays and Saturdays. Even though it doesn't say that anywhere on the coupon which, in fact, says "valid anytime". They then point out a small sign posted on the bar which says coupons not accepted on Fridays or Saturdays. This sign is not at all obvious and we did not see it when we walked in. In my opinion, a bar is for putting drinks on and that's it. Any sign should be obviously posted at the entrance. Does anyone know if there are any laws or rules that govern businesses who issues coupons?What can I do if a business won't accept a valid coupon?
If there is a posted sign, you are out of luck.



If this is a coprorate organization, you can always complain to the home office. They will probably throw a few free games at you.



Also, complain to the Better Business Bureau.
I think you should write a carefully-crafted letter to the management. Send along a copy of your coupon, showing that it says it's valid ANYtime. If Fridays and Saturdays were an exception it should have said ON the coupon, not the bar, "Valid anytime except Fridays and Saturdays." Not making that disclaimer is false advertising. If you are firm but not nasty in your letter, you might get a few MORE free games out of it!What can I do if a business won't accept a valid coupon?
Consider sending a letter to the head office, including a copy of the coupon (both sides if it is double sided) and possibly even highlight where it says "valid any time".

You might even include a photograph or sketch to show where the sign was positioned at the bar in relation to the entrance.



Technically I think you lose out, as I'm pretty sure the company has the right to change any conditions of use as long as the new conditions are displayed in store.



But rather than making a complaint about this, you could "express your regret in regards to the negligent omission of a relevant condition of use on the coupon itself", or "the inappropriate display position of the new conditions of use" or some such fancy language.



It's also a good idea to make a follow-up phone call, 2 or 3 days later, to ensure they recieved and have made a note of your letter.

Always thank them for their time and express concern rather than complain!



I hope you eventually get your free games. =P