Payless shoe store Syracuse New York

I recieved a text from company to use a 30% coupon off my purchase. I went into the store and the lady working stated that entire store was on sale look for red tags and such. I said great. I did my shopping and brought 2 pairs of boots to counter a headband and pair of shoes all of which had a sale tag not a red tag stating clearance on them. As did the lady ahead of me making her purchase at end of transaction the lady stated that she nor i could use the coupn bc we did not buy items at regular price. How can we do so when everything was priced at sale prices. What was the coupon intended to be used for then? Bait and switch to get in door and then get to register to then be told cant use. I ended up putting back half my purchase do to the great deal i thought i was about to get but then did not. I will not go back anymore and spend money and will also tell people how the coupon is used.