Coupons

Recently many people are talking about coupons websites such as Groupon and Everyday Coupon.

Below are some FAQs for sharing. Please note that these are just my personal comments as a customer of coupons:

1) What is coupon?

A coupon is like discounted voucher. Normally customers will get approximately 50% off for a product/service. You can buy vouchers at a discounted price and then claim for the product/service (e.g. body massage, spa, GPS).

2) How does coupon works?

• Select the coupon that you want to purchase.
• Pay online via Credit Card or direct debit.
• Once the deal is closed, you will be received a notification. Print out the coupon and then use it.

3) What is the difference between Groupon and Everday Coupon?

The mechanism behind Groupon and Everyday Coupon is the same. They are just like two different companies.

4) What are the "hidden" clauses?

Coupons can only be purchased within a short period of time. Please read the terms and conditions properly. Things to take note before you purchase a coupon:

• Validity period – The coupon can be used at certain dates and time only. E.g. It cannot be used on public holidays.
• Outlets – The coupon can be used at certain outlets only. E.g. It can only be used in Jalan Yap Kwang Seng’s Tony Romas.
• Reservation – Certain coupons contain a minimum days for reservation.
• Number of pax – Certain coupons contain a requirement for min/ max pax.
• Package – If the coupon comes with a combo such as 8 course meal, normally changes are not allowed.
• Additional charges – E.g. Sometimes using the coupon on weekends contain additional charges.

5) Why companies are offering coupons?

Below are some of the reasons:

• Attract new customers
• Improve business
• Promote a new branch or company
• Promote their product/ services

Note: For a lot of restaurants on Groupon/Everyday Coupon, the food is normally so-so or bad.

6) What are cons of using coupon?

• Coupon needs to be purchased in advance and use it at a later time. If you want to use it immediately, sorry coupon is not the one.
• Coupon can only be used at selected dates and time.
• You need to abide to the terms and conditions of the coupon. E.g. Need to make reservations.
• The respond for cheap coupons (e.g. RM1 for 3 hours of karaoke) are normally ridiculously overwhelming. So in the end you may not be able to use it as it will be overbooked.
• Some products/services may not meet your satisfactions.

Tips before buying a coupon:

• Always check the terms and conditions buying any coupon. No point buying a coupon which you are unable to use unless you plan to buy it as a gift.
  
• Check out feedback (e.g. forum, blog, friends) by those who have used the product/service before.
• Info such as number of pax who have bought the deal can be used as a decision making tool.

Hope this helps :)