Thanks, but not very much

The Consumerist mentions a coupon from Sears which, paired with the marketing copy that comes along with it, is a bizarre way to show its customers gratitude. "Thank you for choosing Sears Auto Center today," the coupon proudly exclaims. "Here's a special offer just for you!"

The coupon gives you $5 off on a purchase of $25 or more and it's valid in the clothing, lawn and garden, home fashions, fitness and sporting goods, home appliances, and seasonal and outdoor living sections of Sears. Not bad, right?

Alas, here are the restrictions. Not valid on...

Clearance and closeout; Special Purchases; Everyday great price items; Introductory Offers; Lands' End merchandise; Levi's; Two Hearts maternity; Scrubology; Edwin Watts Golf merchandise; Excelled Leather; Sears Fan Shop; EMC Outerwear; Footwear; Fab Finds; Insane Deals; Price Drop items; Mattresses; Shaw rug gallery; Recliners; Automotive; Electrolux; Dehumidifiers; Air conditioners; Floor care; Jenn-Air; Dacor; Fisher & Paykel; Water softeners; Water heaters; Water filtration; Air cleaners; Home appliance accessories; Sewing machines; Countertop microwaves; Humidifiers; Fitness accessories; Generators; Weber Agio patio furniture; Propane tanks and exchanges; Outlet store purchases; Parts & Repair Centers; Catalog orders; Gift Cards; Protection agreements; Sears licensed business.

OK fine. Coupons need to have some restrictions, but this one's just giving away $5, and if you're trying to thank a customer for coming to your store, this is a fail. In fact, the guy who received this coupon hated it so much that he was convinced to take his business elsewhere. He viewed it as a "con."