Come-back-soon coupons already flowing

Toys "R" Us didn't waste any time. My colleague Kara McGuire has already received three rewards program coupons she got after doing some Christmas shopping at the store. The coupons have short life spans, about two weeks, and have tiered "use by" dates aimed at getting consumers to make multiple visits starting Jan. 1. (Kara's recent story goes deeper into the strategy of loyalty programs.) As for the Toys "R" Us quick-turn coupon tactic ... on one hand, didn't kids just get a bunch of toys for Christmas? Why go back to the toy store? On the other, they probably got money from grandparents and other relatives, or they want accessories and add-ons to go with their new toys. Retailers now are trying to squeeze as many sales out of the next few weeks as they can. Fallow months are ahead when shoppers are burned out and there's not much to look forward to until spring merchandise hits the shelves.