Giant has been doing this for years.

Did you ever work in retail? The “star” sale items — usually two or three things — are loss-leaders. They are designed to get you in the store and the ads usually are quite clear that “quantities [are] limited.”

That said, the best tactic is to know-and-go on the day the deal starts. For groceries, it’s usually on a Wednesday. I realize that’s not always possible but if you can make it a short in-and-out trip just to get the specials it might help. It’s up to you to do the ROI for your time to “time it” right.

The other tip is to ask floor/restock staff if or when an additional shipment may come in. I’ve not had much luck asking the “fulfillment” folks; they just pull from their list which already eliminates or substitutes out-of-stock items.

Good luck and it’s nice to see someone watching their wallet.

All items at a store are "on sale."

I shop at Giant and they have the sale items every week.

Ask for rain check if an item is sold out. I do not really run into that situation though. Maybe change when you shop. If it is the end of the sale period or after a Saturday morning rush they may need a restock.

I don't know what you are talking about. Usually things like meat are discounted at the last sell by dates and then they sell quickly. I only shop Safeway for items on sale and check the app. Got chips for a kids event for $8a box instead of $15 yesterday. Sales on fresh things are less frequent.

Has anyone else noticed that the stores do not have discount items?
All the time when I look for an advertised sale item it is sold out. I suspect that they advertise an item to be on sale once it is almost sold out or already sold out.
My favorite grocer had a big sign all over the store regarding chicken that could be purchased on points.
I didn’t find the chicken, but the meat counter had a very similar but more vague advert for the item.
I happily purchased it but obviously did not get the discount. I even asked and was told that it is only applicable for the family meal’ pack that they don’t have.
I suggested taking the sign down since they don’t even sell the item.
Obviously they didn’t do that.