Payback launches mobile app
Members can use iPhones at partner stores
German loyalty scheme Payback is launching a new app that allows customers shopping in partner company stores across Germany to use their iPhones to redeem valid, customer-specific coupons.
Payback, whose loyalty card is present in 60% of German households, claims the new application is the first of its kind in Europe and will give users the opportunity to collect points through regional promotions.
Customers can also request updates on their points balance and find out the location of and quickest route to all partner stores.
Payback says the app enhances paper coupons and the online coupons by enabling users to save mobile vouchers with just a tap — up to tenfold points for purchases made or a 50 % discount on products. The points are automatically credited to the customer’s account as soon as he shows his card at the cash desk in the usual way. The coalition scheme operator says there is no need to scan in or display the codes at the cash desk.
The app is launching with coupons from ten major Payback partners including Aral, dm-drogerie markt, Galeria Kaufhof and real. Others are due to follow soon.
“This application offers enormous potential. According to a Payback survey, 35% of our customers are likely to own a smartphone by the end of the year,” said Burkhard Grassmann, spokesman for the Payback management board. “That means we will be able to provide millions of customers with an extremely innovative service that’s completely free. In addition, our partners are now able to offer event-based, local campaigns. For example, when the first snow falls in Munich, they could use the app to send special offers on winter tyres to customers in and around the city.”
Available as a free download in the Apple App Store, the Payback App can also be used by new customers to register for the bonus program. It is due to be made available to other smartphones during 2010.