Which Daily Deals Site Is Right For Your Business?

Local deal sites are sprouting like weeds. Probably because Groupon is making more money than you can imagine.

So the question is, what are the differences – and which one is right for your business?

The Local Deal Sites

There are far too many sites to cover every one here, so we’re going to look at the two biggest, and two new ones that are creating quite a stir.

Groupon LogGroupon

The original deals site, with a huge reach (fast expanding worldwide), Groupon is well known and has millions of members. Groupon insists on 50%+ discounts on offers, and takes a big cut of the revenue a business actually receives – but this can be worth it, because in many markets a tremendous number of people will learn about and potentially try out your company’s service. I’ve previously discussed using Groupon in more detail.

Living Social LogoLiving Social

Living Social is likely the 2nd largest deals site, and now has some powerful backing courtesy of Amazon.com, which purchased a large stake in the company. The way the site works is virtually indistinguishable from Groupon. The audiences, however, differ somewhat, with market shares varying by individual location. A recent study found that Living Social users are on the whole younger, somewhat wealthier, and more frequently located in the South and Pacific regions than Groupon users.

Google Offers LogoGoogle Offers

Google recently announced the new Google Offers. This appears to be essentially another Groupon clone, advertising discounts over 50% and the ability to receive regular emails with new offers. The service is currently in beta, available only in Portland, San Francisco, and New York City. They are also collecting emails from other cities. Although Google will have to build up a list of subscribers to its deals, the company’s ability to promote Offers on Google Maps and in the search results may make a list less crucial to their success.

Facebook Deals LogoFacebook Deals

The newest entry into this fray is Facebook’s recently announced Deals platform (unique from their previous Check-In Deals). Facebook has taken a unique approach to the deals space. They do not require the steep discounts seen at other deal sites, but are clearly targeting those businesses whose services are consumed socially (ie, restaurants, events, entertainment, etc). This plays to Facebook’s strengths, as deals will be automatically promoted among groups of friends through the existing feeds and notifications on Facebook’s site. Visit their business page or download the business guide for more details. Like Google Offers, Facebook Deals is in beta and available in limited cities, currently Dallas, Atlanta, Boston, San Diego, and San Francisco.

Which Deal Site To Use?

With all the options, which daily deals site should your business pick?

  • If you’ll offer a big discount – As I discussed in the Groupon review, there are downsides to the way traditional daily deals sites work. Offering 50% off, and netting more like 25% of the service’s regular price doesn’t work for some companies, but it can bring a flood of customers to the right business. If this is what you’re looking for, it would be best to look at both Groupon and Living Social. Check which site appears to garner more sales for a given type of deal in your area, and speak with the salespeople to see which site will treat you better. If Google Offers has launched in your city, consider their service as well, just realize that it may be some time before they have the volume of Groupon and Living Social.
  • If you’re looking for the social side – If you provide services that are consumed socially, Facebook Deals sounds like a slam-dunk, and it might be successful even for other types of companies. It provides an extra incentive to get people sharing your company and recommending you in their news feeds. There appears to be very little downside to this program – it might be wise to try it as soon as it arrives in your city, because there is a good chance it will end up flooded with deals.

In addition to the above options, some cities have deal sites which are strong in their particular area, and some local newspapers are also offering deals. With any option, be sure to ask about what they’re charging you, what options they have (can you limit the number of deals purchased?), and the kind of distribution offered by their mailing list/website.

Daily deals are still a relatively new phenomenon (Groupon launched in November 2008). I’m sure we’ll see continued changes as the space matures over the next few years. As usual, change will make things more complicated, but also create opportunities for savvy businesses.

Tags: , , , ,

72 Responses to “Which Daily Deals Site Is Right For Your Business?”

  1. David Weasley May 26, 2011 at 11:32 am #

    Daily deals and group deals site no doubt have a lot to offer for businesses. Sites like Huddlebuy have created an opportunity for small businesses to benefit from the same kind of discounts on goods and services that large companies have, using the online group buying strategy. This one’s exclusively for small business owners in UK.

    • Chris May 26, 2011 at 1:06 pm #

      Thanks for alerting us to one of the sites available overseas – you can surely see that I’m most knowledgeable about the US market.

      As a caveat to the readers, however, it does appear this poster works for Huddlebuy.

  2. resource March 23, 2012 at 10:24 am #

    I just like the helpful info you provide in your articles. I’ll bookmark your blog and test again right here frequently. I am relatively sure I’ll learn a lot of new stuff right here! Best of luck for the next!

  3. psicologo alicante February 12, 2013 at 9:44 am #

    Hi, i believe that i saw you visited my web site so i came to go back the choose?.I am attempting to find issues to improve my site!I guess its good enough to use a few of your ideas!!

  4. ds Domination December 5, 2013 at 8:06 am #

    My brother recommended I may like this web site.

    He was totally right. This submit truly made my day. You cann’t believe just how much time I had spent for
    this information! Thanks!

  5. Work online and get paid daily December 5, 2013 at 8:53 am #

    Howdy! Quick question that’s totally off topic.

    Do you know how to make your site mobile friendly?

    My website looks weird when browsing from my apple iphone.

    I’m trying to find a template or plugin that might be able to correct this problem.
    If you have any recommendations, please share. Many thanks!

  6. working from home online December 11, 2013 at 8:27 pm #

    I am really impressed with your writing skills as well as with
    the layout on your blog. Is this a paid theme or did you customize it yourself?

    Either way keep up the nice quality writing, it’s rare to see a
    nice blog like this one today.

  7. network marketing January 12, 2014 at 6:42 am #

    It’s perfect time to make some plans for the long run and it is time to be happy.
    I have read this publish and if I may just I wish to counsel you some fascinating things or tips.
    Maybe you can write next articles regarding this article.
    I wish to learn even more issues approximately it!

  8. http://www.youtube.com/ January 13, 2014 at 2:24 am #

    I’m not sure exactly why but this web site is loading incredibly slow for me.
    Is anyone else having this problem or is it a issue on my end?
    I’ll check back later on and see if the problem still exists.

  9. Can You Make Money on Ebay January 13, 2014 at 2:55 am #

    I love your blog.. very nice colors & theme.
    Did you design this website yourself or did you hire someone to do it for you?
    Plz answer back as I’m looking to construct my own blog and would like
    to find out where u got this from. many thanks

  10. online lead generation January 13, 2014 at 7:44 am #

    You actually make it seem so easy with your presentation but I find this topic to be actually something that I think I would never understand.
    It seems too complex and very broad for me. I’m looking forward for your next post,
    I will try to get the hang of it!

  11. mlm leads January 13, 2014 at 8:04 am #

    Quality articles is the secret to interest the people to
    pay a visit the site, that’s what this site is providing.

  12. tips for selling on ebay auction January 13, 2014 at 7:44 pm #

    I’m truly enjoying the design and layout of your website.

    It’s a very easy on the eyes which makes it much more enjoyable for me
    to come here and visit more often. Did you hire out a designer to
    create your theme? Exceptional work!

  13. Enagic Reviews January 22, 2014 at 8:22 am #

    Way cool! Some very valid points! I appreciate
    you penning this post and also the rest of the website is extremely good.

  14. Gano Excel January 22, 2014 at 8:30 am #

    Thanks , I’ve just been looking for information about
    this topic for ages and yours is the greatest I’ve came upon so
    far. But, what in regards to the conclusion? Are you positive concerning the source?

  15. Momentis January 22, 2014 at 8:40 am #

    This is a good tip especially to those new to the blogosphere.
    Brief but very accurate information… Many thanks for sharing this one.
    A must read article!

  16. Lifewave Scam January 22, 2014 at 8:43 am #

    Good day! This post couldn’t be written any better!
    Reading this post reminds me of my previous room mate!
    He always kept talking about this. I will forward this article to him.
    Pretty sure he will have a good read. Many thanks for sharing!

  17. Ludaxx Scam January 22, 2014 at 9:53 am #

    Excellent post however , I was wondering if you could write a litte more on this
    topic? I’d be very grateful if you could elaborate
    a little bit more. Bless you!

  18. www.youtube.com January 23, 2014 at 8:12 am #

    Aw, this was an exceptionally nice post. Spending
    some time and actual effort to make a good article… but what can
    I say… I put things off a whole lot and never seem to get nearly anything done.

  19. mlm leads review January 23, 2014 at 9:04 am #

    Yesterday, while I was at work, my cousin stole my iphone
    and tested to see if it can survive a forty foot drop,
    just so she can be a youtube sensation. My iPad is now broken and she has 83 views.
    I know this is totally off topic but I had to share it with someone!

  20. mlm leads January 23, 2014 at 9:07 am #

    Nice post. I learn something totally new and challenging on blogs I stumbleupon everyday.
    It’s always interesting to read content from other authors and practice
    something from other web sites.

  21. mlm leads review January 23, 2014 at 9:08 am #

    This article will assist the internet visitors for setting up new blog or even a blog from start to end.

  22. MLM business January 23, 2014 at 9:10 am #

    It’s perfect time to make some plans for the longer term and it’s time to be happy.
    I have learn this publish and if I may just I desire to suggest you few attention-grabbing things or tips.

    Maybe you can write next articles relating to this article.
    I want to read even more things about it!

  23. how to generate leads online January 23, 2014 at 9:27 am #

    Greetings from California! I’m bored to tears at work so
    I decided to check out your site on my iphone during lunch break.

    I enjoy the info you provide here and can’t wait to take
    a look when I get home. I’m shocked at how fast your blog loaded on my
    cell phone .. I’m not even using WIFI, just 3G ..

    Anyways, amazing blog!

  24. lifevantage January 24, 2014 at 2:50 am #

    I used to be recommended this web site by my cousin. I am now not sure
    whether or not this put up is written via him as no one
    else recognise such specified about my problem. You’re
    wonderful! Thanks!

  25. how do i sell on ebay January 25, 2014 at 3:13 am #

    Hey I am so thrilled I found your blog page, I really found you by mistake, while I was researching on Digg for something else, Regardless I am here now and
    would just like to say cheers for a marvelous post and a all round entertaining blog (I also love the theme/design), I
    don’t have time to read it all at the moment but
    I have book-marked it and also added your RSS feeds, so when I have time I will
    be back to read much more, Please do keep up the great work.

  26. telexfree January 26, 2014 at 8:34 am #

    Hi there, just wanted to say, I loved this blog post.
    It was helpful. Keep on posting!

  27. mlm marketing tips January 28, 2014 at 8:23 pm #

    Hey! Do you use Twitter? I’d like to follow you if that would be ok.
    I’m absolutely enjoying your blog and look forward to new updates.

  28. http://www.Youtube.com/ January 28, 2014 at 8:55 pm #

    I’m really enjoying the theme/design of your weblog.
    Do you ever run into any browser compatibility issues?
    A small number of my blog audience have complained about my blog
    not working correctly in Explorer but looks great in Opera.
    Do you have any recommendations to help fix this issue?

  29. http://www.youtube.com/ January 28, 2014 at 9:00 pm #

    It’s remarkable to pay a quick visit this web site and reading
    the views of all mates about this piece of writing, while
    I am also keen of getting familiarity.

  30. mlm tips January 28, 2014 at 9:06 pm #

    Hi to every one, it’s in fact a good for me to pay
    a visit this web site, it consists of precious Information.

  31. business advice January 28, 2014 at 9:09 pm #

    It’s going to be ending of mine day, but before ending I am reading this impressive
    article to increase my knowledge.

  32. building your network marketing business January 29, 2014 at 1:54 am #

    I’m gone to tell my little brother, that he should also visit
    this website on regular basis to take updated from hottest news.

  33. www.youtube.com January 29, 2014 at 2:10 am #

    What’s up, I log on to your new stuff like every week.
    Your writing style is witty, keep it up!

  34. four different types of personalities January 29, 2014 at 2:11 am #

    Have you ever considered publishing an ebook or guest authoring on other websites?
    I have a blog based upon on the same information you discuss and would really like to have you share some stories/information.
    I know my audience would value your work. If you’re even
    remotely interested, feel free to send me an email.

  35. how To build MLM business January 29, 2014 at 2:15 am #

    Hi there, I enjoy reading through your article. I
    like to write a little comment to support you.

  36. how To get Success in Network marketing January 29, 2014 at 2:20 am #

    Quality content is the key to be a focus for the people to pay a visit the site, that’s what this
    web site is providing.

  37. mlm success\home business success January 29, 2014 at 2:32 am #

    Its not my first time to pay a visit this web page, i am browsing
    this web site dailly and get fastidious data from here everyday.

  38. javita February 5, 2014 at 8:14 pm #

    Woah! I’m really digging the template/theme of this website.
    It’s simple, yet effective. A lot of times it’s very difficult to get that “perfect balance” between superb usability and appearance.
    I must say that you’ve done a awesome job with this. Also,
    the blog loads very fast for me on Internet explorer. Exceptional Blog!

  39. Miessence February 5, 2014 at 8:52 pm #

    Thanks for your marvelous posting! I actually enjoyed reading it, you will be a great
    author.I will always bookmark your blog and will often
    come back down the road. I want to encourage you continue your great
    posts, have a nice morning!

  40. pink zebra sprinkles February 7, 2014 at 9:06 pm #

    Great website. Lots of helpful information here.

    I’m sending it to several pals ans also sharing in delicious.

    And obviously, thank you for your effort!

  41. talk fusion February 17, 2014 at 8:21 pm #

    Please let me know if you’re looking for a article writer for your
    weblog. You have some really good articles and I think I would be a
    good asset. If you ever want to take some of the load off, I’d
    absolutely love to write some content for your blog in exchange for a link back to mine.
    Please send me an e-mail if interested. Kudos!

  42. visi February 19, 2014 at 7:23 pm #

    Hello there! I know this is kind of off topic but I was wondering if you knew where I could find a captcha plugin for my comment form?

    I’m using the same blog platform as yours and I’m having difficulty finding
    one? Thanks a lot!

  43. youtube.com February 19, 2014 at 7:54 pm #

    Fabulous, what a webpage it is! This weblog presents helpful information to us, keep it up.

  44. Beyond Organic February 21, 2014 at 12:22 am #

    I’m gone to inform my little brother, that he should also go to see
    this web site on regular basis to get updated from most up-to-date news update.

  45. metabolife February 21, 2014 at 12:42 am #

    First of all I want to say excellent blog! I had a quick question which I’d
    like to ask if you do not mind. I was curious to find out how you center yourself
    and clear your thoughts before writing. I have had a tough time clearing my thoughts in getting my ideas out.
    I truly do take pleasure in writing however it just seems like the first 10
    to 15 minutes are lost simply just trying to figure out how to begin.
    Any ideas or hints? Many thanks!

  46. http://Youtube.com February 21, 2014 at 12:45 am #

    Hi there, There’s no doubt that your site may be having web browser compatibility problems.
    When I look at your blog in Safari, it looks fine but when opening in Internet Explorer, it’s got some overlapping issues.
    I merely wanted to give you a quick heads up! Besides that, wonderful website!

  47. youtube.com February 21, 2014 at 12:49 am #

    If some one wants to be updated with latest technologies
    therefore he must be pay a visit this site and be up to date every day.

  48. Zija International February 21, 2014 at 4:26 am #

    We stumbled over here different web page and thought I may
    as well check things out. I like what I see so i am
    just following you. Look forward to exploring your web page again.

  49. juice plus scam February 21, 2014 at 8:19 am #

    Hey, I think your site might be having browser compatibility issues.
    When I look at your blog site in Opera, it looks fine but when opening in Internet Explorer, it has some overlapping.
    I just wanted to give you a quick heads up! Other then that, great blog!

  50. LeadsOnline February 22, 2014 at 6:22 pm #

    I’ve been exploring for a bit for any high quality articles
    or blog posts in this sort of space . Exploring in Yahoo I eventually stumbled upon this website.
    Reading this info So i’m happy to show that I’ve an incredibly good uncanny feeling I discovered
    exactly what I needed. I most undoubtedly
    will make sure to do not put out of your mind this site and provides it a glance regularly.

  51. youtube.com February 22, 2014 at 6:37 pm #

    What’s up Dear, are you really visiting this web site daily, if so afterward you will definitely get nice knowledge.

  52. Lead Generation Online February 22, 2014 at 6:58 pm #

    I am regular reader, how are you everybody?
    This paragraph posted at this web page is genuinely fastidious.

  53. www.youtube.com February 22, 2014 at 8:09 pm #

    Hi, I do think this is an excellent website.
    I stumbledupon it 😉 I may return once again since I saved as a favorite it.
    Money and freedom is the best way to change, may you be rich
    and continue to guide other people.

  54. ecosway February 22, 2014 at 8:09 pm #

    Why viewers still use to read news papers when in this technological globe everything is accessible
    on net?

  55. Viridian energy February 22, 2014 at 9:47 pm #

    Hmm is anyone else encountering problems with
    the pictures on this blog loading? I’m trying
    to determine if its a problem on my end or if it’s the blog.
    Any feed-back would be greatly appreciated.

  56. Genesis Pure February 22, 2014 at 9:48 pm #

    No matter if some one searches for his essential thing, so he/she
    needs to be available that in detail, so that thing
    is maintained over here.

  57. Genesis pure February 22, 2014 at 9:49 pm #

    My spouse and I stumbled over here from a different web page and thought I
    might as well check things out. I like what I see so i
    am just following you. Look forward to finding out
    about your web page repeatedly.

  58. Tastefully simple February 22, 2014 at 9:57 pm #

    Hello! Do you know if they make any plugins to assist with SEO?
    I’m trying to get my blog to rank for some targeted keywords but I’m not seeing
    very good gains. If you know of any please share.
    Thank you!

  59. oriflame February 22, 2014 at 10:06 pm #

    Does your site have a contact page? I’m having problems locating it but, I’d like to shoot
    you an email. I’ve got some ideas for your blog you might be interested in hearing.

    Either way, great blog and I look forward to seeing
    it expand over time.

  60. Youngevity February 22, 2014 at 11:10 pm #

    I enjoy what you guys tend to be up too. Such clever work and reporting!
    Keep up the wonderful works guys I’ve added you guys to blogroll.

  61. Forever Living Reviews February 22, 2014 at 11:29 pm #

    Highly descriptive blog, I liked that a lot.
    Will there be a part 2?

  62. Http://www.youtube.com February 23, 2014 at 5:40 pm #

    Hello! Would you mind if I share your blog with my zynga group?
    There’s a lot of people that I think would really enjoy your content.
    Please let me know. Cheers

  63. Ganolife Scam February 23, 2014 at 6:10 pm #

    I’m amazed, I must say. Rarely do I come across a
    blog that’s equally educative and entertaining, and without a doubt, you have hit the nail
    on the head. The problem is something that not enough men and women are speaking intelligently about.
    I am very happy that I found this in my search for something concerning this.

  64. Arbonne International February 23, 2014 at 6:10 pm #

    I have been browsing online more than 2 hours today, yet I never found
    any interesting article like yours. It is pretty worth enough for me.
    In my opinion, if all webmasters and bloggers made good content as
    you did, the web will be a lot more useful than ever
    before.

  65. Zurvita February 24, 2014 at 8:14 am #

    Woah! I’m really enjoying the template/theme of this site.

    It’s simple, yet effective. A lot of times it’s hard to get that “perfect balance” between user friendliness and visual appeal.
    I must say you’ve done a excellent job with this.
    Additionally, the blog loads super quick for me on Safari.

    Outstanding Blog!

  66. youtube.com February 24, 2014 at 10:07 am #

    I am curious to find out what blog platform you have been using?
    I’m experiencing some small security issues
    with my latest website and I’d like to find something more safeguarded.
    Do you have any solutions?

  67. Xocai March 4, 2014 at 6:17 pm #

    I’m excited to find this website. I need to to thank you for ones
    time due to this wonderful read!! I definitely appreciated every bit of
    it and I have you saved as a favorite to look
    at new stuff on your blog.

  68. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iKQuyGk-pm0 March 13, 2014 at 8:21 pm #

    I’ve learn some just right stuff here. Certainly worth bookmarking for revisiting.
    I wonder how so much effort you place to create this kind
    of wonderful informative web site.

  69. visalus March 14, 2014 at 4:41 am #

    Currently it appears like Drupal is the top blogging platform
    available right now. (from what I’ve read) Is that what you’re using on your
    blog?

  70. dieser kerl April 13, 2018 at 5:11 pm #

    Ich fotografiere auch keine fremden Menschen.

  71. hobbyhuren charlottenburg April 25, 2018 at 8:01 pm #

    19 % weniger als im gleichen Zeitraum 2013.