Tuesday, August 15, 2006
Google Puts Coupons on the Map
Google and mailbox-stuffer Valpak are teaming up to put local coupons alongside Google's Maps. Pinpoint a destination and you'll get coupons from the closest small businesses.It is surprising to me that Google is introducing this as a free service to advertisers -- why risk reader wrath and not get anything for the trouble? Perhaps Google is hoping that if small businesses see a benefit that they will advertise elsewhere.
According to Adotas Google will eventually integrate AdWords into Maps, which will be very lucrative for the company. I would also gladly give up some demographic information to personalize my coupon experience and save a few trees by only getting the coupons online.
Today, you will see sponsored ads if you search for a business through Google Local/Maps, but no ads if you only enter a destination. While the services are related, I don't think searching for businesses through the Maps interface is the best way to entice advertisers or satisfy consumers.
Posted By John Gartner at 05:29 PM
Permanent Link: Google Puts Coupons on the Map
| Comments (0)
Subscribe to The MarketingShift Feed