Groupon, itison etc

[Bob Jefferson]

We have been making good use of these discount schemes in recent months. Great offers for restaurants, massage treatments etc. And as a marketing tool it seems to be phenomenally successful. As an example, I just bought a deal for a meal for two at Nargile. It went online this morning and they had already sold 337 deals last time I looked. It's a win-win - the opportunity to maybe try out a new place at an affordable price and, from the owner's view it's bums on seats and the promise of repeat business.

[Bob Jefferson]

And with an hour still to run, they have now sold 1186 deals. I can't imagine any other form of promotion that would deliver that kind of result. And let's face it - lots of those couples are going to end up buying a bottle of wine, dessert, coffees etc.

[Maria]

[Bob Jefferson]

That's a possibility. Fortunately, we're looking for a Monday night, which shouldn't be a problem.

[Sandra]

I used the groupon before Xmas for a haircut/colour/conditioning treatment at Cascal all for £30. They got well over 1600 deals sold. (and a lot of unhappy people who had to wait till January to use the voucher!)

[Puerto bella]

There are heavy restrictions on the service provider/ business making the offer which I was hearing about last week. Some new salons etc can really struggle with the volume that Groupon generates.
Seems like a good idea to broaden a customer base but if it means you are working for 60% of your regular rates , all hours to meet the obligation and are restricted from advertising elsewhere for 6 months or a year then its a judgement call.
Got the Mussleburgh Easter race course one the other day.