savi has been generating, processing, and settling coupons for more than fifty years. Now that mobile coupons are a reality for our clients we decided to take a closer look at the positive sides for both options.
The pros of Paper Coupons
Real-world convenience: For some demographics and locations, paper coupons are easily carried and can be used without the need for a smartphone or apps. This makes them suitable for a wider range of shoppers, such as those without smartphones or internet access, the wholesale trade, and even live events.
Targeted Distribution: Brands and retailers can strategically distribute paper coupons in specific locations or target particular demographics through direct mail, newspapers, or in-store displays. This approach ensures that coupons reach the intended audience effectively and savi’s techniques allow for tracking redemptions and collecting data safely.
Sharing and Social Aspects: Paper coupons can be easily shared with friends, family, or colleagues, fostering a sense of community, and enhancing social interactions – and ‘couponing’ is still a popular pastime for some shoppers.
Tangibility: Paper coupons provide a physical presence that some shoppers genuinely enjoy and they can create a sense of excitement and anticipation, enhancing the overall shopping experience.
The benefits of Mobile Coupons
Convenience and Accessibility: Today 86% of people own a smartphone, and mobile coupons can be accessed and redeemed through emails, texts, and mobile apps providing convenient options for tech-savvy shoppers who can easily store them ready for when they are needed.
Tracking and Personalisation: Mobile coupons allow for highly personalized offers based on individual preferences. Marketers can leverage data analytics and customer profiling to provide targeted discounts on the products and brands that shoppers are most likely to be interested in.
Integration and Security: Mobile coupons can seamlessly integrate with programmatic advertising, social media, and loyalty programmes, enhancing customer engagement. savi’s coupons also operate via a secure platform that validates redemptions in real-time ensuring fast and transparent transactions for the customer, the retailer, and the brand.
Location-Based and Influencer Coupons: Mobile coupons can leverage location-based technology to offer discounts when shoppers are near specific stores. Additionally, influencers can collaborate with brands to promote exclusive mobile coupons to their followers, expanding reach and engagement.
The future of coupons is likely to be a combination of these approaches, with retailers offering a mix of paper and mobile coupons to cater to the diverse preferences of their customer base. We believe that smart marketers will adopt a bespoke or hybrid strategy for their coupon solutions to maximize customer engagement and satisfaction.
