Cutting Groupons?
I got an invite the other day to a new internet service - it's called Groupon, and I have to admit it's intriguing.
It's along the lines of those special offer coupon books you used to be able to buy - perhaps still can - which gave you (usually) significant discounts on a variety of goods and services.
The service is national - and so are some of the offers, like hotel and travel packages - but it's also local, so local vendors can offer two-for-one meals, or dinner and theater, or a spa service, in your local town. It's sort of a mashup between a social network and a couponing service.
Here's how Groupon explains it: "Groupon negotiates huge discounts on popular local goods, services and cultural events. Then we offer the deals to thousands of subscribers in a free daily email. The deals are activated only when a minimum number of people agree to buy. So our subscribers get a great deal and the business gets a ton of new customers. Win-win.
"More than just a deal site, Groupon is a city guide, a social tool and the best way to experience your city without paying full price."
There's an Android and an iPhone app for the service, so if you're out and about and want to find out if there's a Groupon available for a restaurant or store or museum in your town, you can check it out then and there.
And you can give a Groupon as a gift.
To get started, go to www.groupon.com and sign up - and invite your friends.
It's along the lines of those special offer coupon books you used to be able to buy - perhaps still can - which gave you (usually) significant discounts on a variety of goods and services.
The service is national - and so are some of the offers, like hotel and travel packages - but it's also local, so local vendors can offer two-for-one meals, or dinner and theater, or a spa service, in your local town. It's sort of a mashup between a social network and a couponing service.
Here's how Groupon explains it: "Groupon negotiates huge discounts on popular local goods, services and cultural events. Then we offer the deals to thousands of subscribers in a free daily email. The deals are activated only when a minimum number of people agree to buy. So our subscribers get a great deal and the business gets a ton of new customers. Win-win.
"More than just a deal site, Groupon is a city guide, a social tool and the best way to experience your city without paying full price."
There's an Android and an iPhone app for the service, so if you're out and about and want to find out if there's a Groupon available for a restaurant or store or museum in your town, you can check it out then and there.
And you can give a Groupon as a gift.
To get started, go to www.groupon.com and sign up - and invite your friends.
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