Facebook has launched its ‘deals’ service in the UK, giving users of its Places app local offers sent to their mobile phone, ready to redeem.
Following the launch in the US in November 2010, Deals launched this week in the UK, France, Germany, Italy and Spain.
Part of Facebook Places, Facebook Deals helps users find offers in their local area from their mobile or discover money-saving tips from friends via their News Feed.
When a Facebook Places user “Checks In” a list of Nearby Places will appear and a yellow ticket will show next to Places that are offering deals.
When the user touches the Place they can view the Deal and check in to claim it. The customer then has to show the voucher on their phone to the shop assistant or waiter to redeem their Deal.
For example, If you’re passing a Starbucks this week you can check in and claim a free filter coffee; or head down to Debenhams on 14 February and check in to claim a free Benefit mascara & makeover. For Usher fans heading to the O2 Arena for the London dates of his OMG Tour this week, check in to get 20% off his album and a free remix from the official merchandise stand.
Plus if you check in on Facebook over the next few weeks you will be able to find launch offers from Argos, Alton Towers Resort, Benetton, Mazda, O2, and YO! Sushi.
Joanna Shields, VP EMEA, Facebook said: “We all love a bargain so whether you’re on the lookout for a special offer at your favourite restaurant or tips from a fashionista friend about a discount on shoes in a department store, Facebook Deals will help you find it.
”Facebook is built around people and sharing personal experiences and Deals is a great extension of this. By bringing valuable and relevant offers to you wherever and whenever you want them, Deals delivers a powerful experience that combines technology and location in a way that a pure online or offline experience could never deliver.”
There are a few different types of Deals: Individual Deals offer a one-time discount, free merchandise or other reward; Friend Deals offer deals that you and your friends can claim when you check-in together; Loyalty Deals reward you for being a frequent customer; and Charity Deals allow businesses to donate to a particular cause when you check in.
www.facebook.com/deals
