Digital Coupons in the Current Economic Climate

August 2, 2011

If you’ve ever been stuck in the checkout line behind someone redeeming a handful of paper coupons, you know that many people are still clipping them in the traditional sense. There’s even a reality show dedicated to the madness of “the deal.” It’s both disturbing and interesting.

But the times are changing. Digital Coupons are popping up and being used at the same rate as paper coupons. According to a recent study from Promotional Codes, “in 2011, 53% of redemptions are still done with paper coupons, but Internet-based redemptions are creeping up. By 2014, most Internet couponing will be the norm.” This means the use of coupons is not going away, but growing. It’s the way people are redeeming them that is changing. And it’s the way merchants are offering them that is also evolving and changing. Now, consumers have more than one option for how to redeem their coupons, which makes it convenient for them as well as merchants.

Consumers are enjoying the convenience of redeeming coupons via their smart phone, but also having the option to print the coupon at home or cut it from the Sunday paper. The economy continues to drive consumers to use more and more coupons, with new daily deals cropping up around every corner. But who’s looking out for the publishers- and the merchants? The Forkfly platform offers the ideal way for media- including publishers, radio and television- to jump on board the digital advertising train. Forkfly also offers something a lot of these large, deal-centric companies are missing: the local angle. Who knows the locals better than the local advertisers and media partners? Each market is different and unique, and each market has its own specific needs.

Three years ago we started building Forkfly, a collection of web based and mobile tools aimed at keeping publishers in the digital game.  Our approach was unique: Publishers, when working together, are a force to be reckoned with.  The collective marketing ability and sales potential of the industry could effectively compete with national disruptors like Groupon, Living Social, and myriad of other players on that national scene that wish to divert small business marketing spends.

So what does Forkfly actually do?

Forkfly allows merchants to offer ongoing and one time deals via web and mobile apps. If a consumer wants to redeem, it’s simple; they print a voucher or hold up their phone. Soon they’ll even be able to earn rewards for sharing deals with their friends via social media!

Forkfly is a self serve platform for small businesses. Advertisers can manage offers, social media, their print and digital spends, and more, all from one platform.  They can even build a loyal follower base and use this tool for instant communication and engagement with their customers.

So what’s all of this about Groupon Now!?

Groupon Now! is now being rolled out in select markets.  Imagine Groupon not offering just one daily deal in your market, but hundreds.  It represents a significant threat to media partners’ ability to retain local advertiser spend.  Forkfly is a huge win for local.  Alisa Cromer, from the trade journal “Local Media Insider” said it best:

“Our recommendation to compete immediately for the space is a partnership with Forkfly”

What’s Happening Now in the Digital Coupon Space

June 10, 2011

There’s a ton of buzz about what’s going on in the deal site space right now. In short, Groupon now must show their financials in order to go public.

Groupon confirmed its plans to go public this month, raising an estimated $750m on the US stock markets at a price that could value it at potentially over $20bn, according to analysts. The company will become the latest social media firm to go public, adding to a highly competitive new technology market.

Consumers and merchants alike see the benefit to offering on-going or daily deals. Studies are proving that the lasting effects include customer loyalty, customer retention, and new customer acquisition. Daily deals and on-going deals also prove to be a better method of managing marketing in a digital market and allowing merchants to give the customer the deals they desire through on-going communication. Analytics built into online coupons and mobile coupons also offer result tracking like never before.

The companies that are set to take advantage of this new market place are those that have a model built for sustainability. In short – the Groupon sales/employee weight and the national marketing expense coupled with the end user acquisition cost is heavy. Compared with the Forkfly model, which is light, nimble and based heavily on merchant to customer communication and retention.

As Local Media Insider Alisa Cromer writes, “Don’t cede your DMA to GrouponNow (or GoogleOffers) in the locational deal store/coupon space. The locational coupon and certificate store space is still up for grabs. Forkfly, can, at least conceivably, be launched in 30 days, because most of the technology is already built. It also has a nascent national network, which is better than launching alone.”

From 2006 to 2009, the proportion of digital coupons among all coupons redeemed increased from 1% to 10%, while newspaper coupons fell from 63% to 50%, according to data from NCH Marketing Services. With digital coupons on the rise, customers are looking for a fully integrated digital solution, and who better to offer them that than the publishers.

While Forkfly is not a daily deal centered business (Only 7% of our revenue) we have put the time and attention to build a platform that utilizes the relations of the publisher/media companies. Forkfly utilizes the wholesale platform, merchant to customer communications and retention in real time, and hundreds of free and every day deals for end users.

The frequency of more and more people buying and using Smart Phones means more people are consistently “plugged in” and the success of daily and on-going deal platforms is sure to only increase. The real question for merchants and publishers is not if you’ll sign on, but when and with whom.

Discover Portland: Brow Betty

January 5, 2011

With hundreds of spa/salon options available in Portland, it is easy for consumers to be overwhelmed by choices and for salon owners to get lost in the crowd.  Brow Betty, a premiere eyebrow and waxing bar, hopes that their fun, no stress atmosphere and to the point slogan “Perfect Eyebrows in the Bat of an Eye…No Lie!”, will make them stand out from the sea of businesses for years to come.

Even though they offer other types of waxing and products, brows are of course their passion and forte. Unlike some salons where waxing is more of a secondary side business, Brow Betty does eyebrows all day every day, and they won’t let you leave until they have found the perfect arch for your face.

Surrounded by cotton candy pink walls and 50′s style wooden mirrors you just can’t help but feel upbeat and ready for beautification. The estheticians are all waxing veterans, and are all as cute as a button.  Besides eyebrows, the team also does all other types of facial waxing, body waxing and tinting.

They will also give you some great tips and tricks on how to keep your newly plucked/waxed areas looking great all the time. As someone who took off half her eyebrow last time I tried waxing it myself, I would very much appreciate that kind of advice.  You should also check out the shops highly entertaining blog here–where I found out about something called vagazzling, and yes it is what it sounds like.

Brow Betty is located at The Pointe at Bridgeport, 7114 Hazel Fern Road in Tigard.

You Gotta Try This!: Sugar Mamas’ Hearty Breakfasts & Delicious Baked Goods

December 23, 2010

Growing up I was extremely lucky to have adoptive grandparents who lived right next door to us and would have my family over for Sunday breakfast on a consistent basis.  They loved filling their house with children who adored them, and we loved being spoiled by them!  My grandmother would make biscuits and sausage gravy, cinnamon rolls, and hashbrowns.  My own mother was more of a bran muffin and granola for breakfast type of person, so getting such a huge breakfast like the one my grandmother would make was a special treat for us.  I haven’t had the pleasure of eating breakfast at Sugar Mamas’ Cafe yet, but I imagine the experience is just as delicious and heart warming as mine growing up.

Sugar Mamas’ Cafe, located at 579 SW 13th Ave & SW Alder, is the creation of two adorable sisters, Michelle and Zelda, who love cooking and the joy that their food brings to their customers. Known for their big breakfasts, Sugar Mamas doesn’t scrimp on size or taste, so bring your appetite.  Breakfast is served all day long with yummy options like the Power Cakes Mama’s Cakes with dried cranberries, coconut, banana & REAL maple syrup; their authentic corned beef hash; biscuits and gravy just like how my grandmother made them; and even a meatloaf breakfast served with hashbrowns and eggs.

But Sugar Mamas isn’t just about breakfast, they also serve lunch and scrumptious baked goods. For lunch try their meatloaf sandwich, tomato soup made from scratch, or a tasty grilled sandwich.  For anytime of day, you must try a German Chocolate Brownie, their famous Carmel Pecan Sticky Buns, and their homemade Snickerdoodles just in time for Christmas!

Sugar Mamas is open Mon-Fri 7am to 3pm and Sat-Sun 8am to 1pm. Want to get them delivered to your home or office? Portland Pedal Power has got you covered, just order here and they will deliver it to you by bike!

Discover Portland: Distillery Row

December 22, 2010

Portlanders love to buy their clothes from local designers, are loyal to their favorite neighborhood cafe, and boast about having some of the best wineries in the NW, so why not take it one step further gang and try out some fantastic locally made liquor too!

I am so excited to have discovered Distillery Row.  Situated in SE Portland, Distillery Row is a handful of small distilleries who make handcrafted, locally distilled spirits available for the first time since prohibition. How great is that! There are 5 distilleries on Distillery Row–Deco Distilling, House Spirits, Integrity Spirits, New Deal Distillery, Stone Barn Brandyworks–and they make everything from vodkas and gins, rums and whiskeys, to more specialized spirits such as absinthe, aquavit, and flavored liqueurs.

Deco Distilling, located at 1311 SE 9th Avenue, makes one of my favorite rums of all time the Deco Ginger Rum. It is great with some Cola, Sprite, or some warm cider. All of their rums are made from natural ingredients. The ginger flavored rum in particular has no added sugar, which I love because then you can mix it to your desired taste.

House Spirits, located at 2025 SE 7th Avenue, makes everything from vodka, gin, whiskey and aquavit.  Sporadically House Spirits also releases a small batch of limited-edition spirit in their Apothecary Line available only in their tasting room. Their goal is to pour into every creation the taste and flavor of the Northwest. “We have great respect for our distilling elders and incorporate old world philosophy into our products for the savvy new world palate.”

Integrity Spirits, located at 909 SE Yamhill Street, sells vodka, gin and a specialty absinthe. Their concoctions are more of an art form than a drink, which makes since why their labels are designed with as much care, love and attention as their spirits. I am extremely enticed by their Hazelnut Vodka and 12 Bridges Gin.  The 12 Bridges Gin is aptly named for the number of bridges in Portland, and for the 12 botanicals in its recipe, like Hungarian Juniper Berries, cucumber and peppery ginger.

New Deal Distillery, located at 1311 SE 9th Avenue, is all about vodka. They carry four different styles of vodka, including the award winning Hot Monkey Pepper-Flavored Vodka and the one I am dying to try the Basil-Flavored Vodka. They also make a special brand of organic liqueurs called LOFT Organic Liqueurs. These are made from as-local-as-possible organic fruits and botanicals available.With flavors as diverse as Lavender Cello, Spicy Ginger Cello, and Lemongrass Cello.

Stone Barn Brandyworks, located at 3315 SE 19th, Suite B, produces yummy craft distilled, regional fruit brandies and spirits. Check out just a few of their amazing sounding drinks, like their pear and apple brandy, coffee and quince liqueurs, and an unoaked rye whiskey. I first tried one of their liqueurs at the fabulous Gilt Club and it was absolutely delicious!

I highly recommend you make a visit to Distillery Row.  I just hope Santa is reading this and makes a special delivery to my house this year!

Trendy Tuesday: Local Designs & Unique Handmade Pieces at Frock

December 21, 2010

Mix some vintage styles with some Burning Man inspired fashion and you have Frock–a unique boutique that sells independent designs and small runs of rare, one-of-a-kind pieces, and handmade items. As local as it gets, Frock is committed to the local, living economy with a product mix consisting of 90% locally designed and produced items supplemented with 10% regional, independent, and other goods.

It doesn’t matter your age or sex because Frock has something cool for everyone. They have a plethora of items and it was really hard for me to choose my favorites, but here they are!  For women, I would recommend the Stumptown Tee, Peacock Tank Top, Red Floral Applique Tunic, a belt buckle by Namaste, the bike earrings by Handmade Julz, and the What’s Your Poison necklace.

For kids, I love the Octopus Onesie, the Hotdog Hi Five Tee, and the Cat Eye Sunglasses. How cute are these little models by the way!

For the men out there, check out the Cock Tee, Oregon Undies, Lucha Mask Socks and The Hole In One Sweater Cap.

Frock is located at 1439 NE Alberta St. in Portland, Oregon.  Enjoy your holiday shopping (hint, hint) !

Forkfly Merchants Gift Guide

December 15, 2010

Are you scrambling to assign a gift to everyone on your list? Look no further than Forkfly, where our excellent deals with stellar merchants make it easy to find gifts for family and friends. We have a couple suggestions for shops where you can find *stuff* to give, but mostly we focus on experiential gifts — a pilates class, a zoo membership, and other presents that will get your friends and family out and on the go, creating memories and enjoying life.

Shop Adorn

We only have a few retail clothing stores registered with Forkfly, but Shop Adorn‘s amazing Forkfly discount makes up for it. Get 20% off your entire purchase at Shop Adorn with Forkfly! Shop for men, women and kids at shop adorn online, and go in to the store at 4759 NE Fremont to use your Forkfly coupon.

Geometry Pilates

Maybe exercise class isn’t everyone’s idea of a great Christmas present, but I know some people who would love the chance to try a new pilates or yoga studio, and you have to admit, it’s a very wholesome gift. Best of all would be if you bought a private or semiprivate class for yourself and a friend or two. Check out Geometry’s schedule and rates here. Geometry Pilates is located at 821 NW Flanders Suite 225.

Oregon Zoo

Support the Oregon Zoo and show your love for a family (or an individual, or a couple) in your life with the gift of a zoo membership. The Oregon Zoo is easily accessible by MAX, and some memberships include guest passes, which are great for entertaining out-of-town guests or kids’ friends during the long holiday break. Zoo Lights goes on until January 2, so get this present ready for immediate use! The Oregon Zoo store, a great resource for kids’ gifts and toys, has a 10% discount with Forkfly, so get over there to buy for your dinosaur-loving niece or nephew.

Moxie

I have to feature these Tom’s Wedge shoes here because they’re on my personal wish list. So keep that in mind if you know any 23 year old women — not that my taste is universal. Anyway, at Moxie at E Burnside and 24th and online, you can get 15% off one regularly priced item by pulling up your Forkfly mobile site and showing your coupon. Moxie has clothes for men and women, but I like their accessories best — look here for watches, necklaces and wallets for stuffing stockings and decking out wrapped packages.

Oblation

Oblation Papers and Press at 516 NW 12th Ave can be your source for gift cards, holiday cards, craft materials for making presents, or for journals, card sets and other items that can be given as presents themselves. Take a look at their beautiful merchandise online here and stop in the store to buy for your crafty and artistic friends.

Inn @ Northrup Station

My boyfriend and I like to take short “staycations” — that word is so cheesy, but it’s more fun than you realize to get a hotel room outside Portland or even just on the other side of town and spend an evening or two eating out, exploring a new area, and not having to make the bed. If there’s a couple in your life, consider sending them to the Inn @ Northrup Station for a night or two in January to unwind from all the holiday madness. Located at 2025 NW Northrup St near NW 21st and 23rd, Northrup Station offers easy access to shopping, art galleries, theaters and breweries, and I bet it will feel like a whole new city for an East side couple.

Written by Forkfly intern Eleanor R. Brown

You Gotta Try This!: A Japanese Pub in Portland

December 8, 2010

Maybe I don’t go out enough, but I had never heard of Japanese Pubs before running across Yakuza.  In Japan they call them an izakaya, which is a type of Japanese drinking establishment that also serves food to accompany the drinks.  There are a good amount of sushi restaurants in Portland, but what intrigued me about Yakuza is the fact that they call themselves a Japanese pub and that they apparently won Portland Monthly Magazine’s “Best Burger of 2009.” Tell me that doesn’t peak your interest!

Yakuza of course has some seriously tasty house rolls and sashimi, like their Sashimi Trio, which includes, tuna, yellowtail, and salmon, and their Pear Jalapeno roll, which is a mix of yellowtail, pear, avocado and jalapeno. But you will also find some unique dishes you might not expect at a Japanese establishment, like chilled crab, kobe tartar and of course their award winning Yakuza burger.

Just as enticing as the food is Yakuza’s unique cocktail creations and their huge selection of sake.  Try a Beet Martini, the Wasabi, or a Carrot Cosmo, or one of 15 different sakes, like the Momokawa Organic Nigori Sake, which is rich and creamy and has hints of coconut.

Located in the Concordia Neighborhood at 5411 NE 30th Ave, Yakuza is truly a unique Portland gem.  To make reservations book online here.

You Gotta Try This!: Savory Australian Pies @ Pacific Pie Co

December 2, 2010

Tis the season for pie, and I know I’m not the only one who enjoyed a slightly excessive amount of pecan and pumpkin pie last week. However, our North American holiday pies don’t usually cover the whole continuum of potential pie fillings: we tend to stay on the sweet side. To broaden your horizons, you gotta try Pacific Pie Co.

Pacific Pie Co specializes in Australian-style savory pies, pasties and sausage rolls. These pies are sandwich-sized, not full-pie-sized, so they’re perfect for an individual meal. The savory pies come in beef, chicken, lamb, and vegetarian varieties. Lamb is a traditional Aussie ingredient in savory pies. Pacific Pie Co gets their lamb from an organic, sustainable and humane farm in Canby, Oregon.

In fact, all ingredients in PPC pies are from local Oregon and Southern Washington sources. The meat used has been raised humanely and organically, without antibiotics or hormones, and grass-fed. As a vegetarian, even I don’t object to meat eating under these conditions: small scale, sustainable, organic farming is not detrimental to the environment or the animals like conventional farming is.

Pacific Pie Co also makes vegetarian pasties (pronounced pah-sties, not pay-sties!), which sound amazing to me. Spinach, feta and tomato in a flakey, warm crust? Yes, please! They also have a cheese and veggie pastie, and did I mention that most of these menu items are $5 or $6? I’ve paid a lot more than that for a much lower quality lunch.

They also serve sausage rolls, seasonal sweet pies, salad and soup. All these delicious items from a company with a mission statement of community, sustainability and ethical stewardship of animals makes for a strongly endorsed You Gotta Try This!

Pacific Pie Co is located at 609 SE Ankeny St, Suite C, and they can be found Saturdays at the Beaverton Farmer’s Market and Sundays at the Milwaukie Farmer’s Market. Click here for their website, and find their page with a Forkfly deal for a free coffee or tea here.

Forkfly Daily Deal: 50 Plates

November 24, 2010

Forkfly Fridays-$5 Pacific Calamari during Happy Hour!

It is extremely difficult to get good American comfort food, the way your mother or grandmother makes it, from a restaurant.  Many coffee shop diners might try to pull off some sort of overly salty chicken fried steak concoction or meatloaf made from cheap ground beef, but it always lacks that “I’ve been slaving away in the kitchen for hours” taste.

50 Plates wants to bring that happy feeling back to your tummy with American classics with a contemporary twist.  They prove that you can get the classics you love at the highest quality possible without scrimping on taste.  Their menu includes well known favorites like mac & cheese, chowder, grits, ribs, fish & chips, and of course a hefty burger with fries.  Their version of mac & cheese is way fancier than anything you’ve probably ever had: rigatoni, chicken, fennel, cheddar, parmesan.  Yummy! And their fish & chips include potato crust, asparagus, bok choy, and malt vinegar, how interesting does that sound!

Like many Portland eateries, 50 Plates does what they can to be sustainable.  Chef Patrick Miller and his culinary team have made a commitment to focus on Oregon’s agricultural rhythms as they design their menus, to use organic ingredients when possible, to use meats that are naturally raised, and fish that is responsibly caught.   50 Plates appreciates the meaning of locally grown, sustainable, and humanely raised food products.

Stop on by their location in The Pearl District at 333 NW 13th Ave, and be sure to use their Forkfly deal here to get Pacific Calamari for only $5 during Happy Hour.

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