I’m not sure what is more baffling to me, that Groupon (and others) are still in business, or that business owners are still using them.
If you advertise on Groupon, Restaurants.com, Today’s Deal, etc., or are thinking about advertising there, stop and let’s examine this for a second.
First, let’s look at the companies you are going to share your “deal” with. Here is the list of businesses/products I got in my recent Groupons:
1) “18K Gold, Cultured Pearl Earrings $5”
This product has an average 1.5 star reviews. Buyers are ‘stunned‘, complaining, “These are not real pearls”. (We’re shocked too)
2) “A case of fine wine $35”
Wow, a case of fine wine, shipped to your door for $35? Come on, a case of Boone’s Farm will run you $60. (Be sure to sniff the cap)
3) “Selfie Stick $16.99”
Same one on Amazon for $15.99!
4) “16×20 canvas $29.99”
$20 at CanvasDiscount.com
5) “Mystery Lingerie Subscription $16.99”
The image is a good-looking lady in lingerie wearing a blindfold. Right next to it? One of the local restaurants listed below! Lucky them!
(The following local business names are withheld to save the owners some embarrassment… we hope)
6) A local BBQ Franchise (40% off)
7) A local Steakhouse Franchise (35%off)
8) A local ‘high-end” restaurant (40% off)
As a consumer, you’re going to see #1-5 and think “This is all crap!” AND, if a local business is in the middle of this list… would you see them as a “Diamond in the rough?” NO, you’re going to make the assumption that it’s crap right along with the rest of it.
Now, as a business owner, is this the “company” you want to be running with? As a business owner myself, I’d flip if I saw one of my Transformation Marketing TV ads run next to Ron Popeil’s “GLH Spray-on Hair”. Guilty by association? No thanks.
These companies are STEALING your profits, training your current “normal price” customers to become “discount customers,” and chasing off prospective buyers because they have a poor image of your product.
Nobody should ever have to be subject to lower profits and embarrassment by association from these websites. If you would like to find real ways to improve the profitability and image of your brand, don’t hesitate to give Transformation Marketing a call!