Belfast location-based voucher app DIP has adapted to changing shopping habits due to the lockdown, and is offering free advertising credit to local businesses still open during the lockdown.
One thing you can be sure of during the coronavirus pandemic is that tech companies are collecting plenty of data on consumer trend shifts. One app that's been collecting data and has had to adapt to the lockdown is Belfast-based voucher app Deals in Places (DIP), which was created with the idea of using location data to show people deals in their immediate vicinity while out shopping. The app is available on iOS and Android.
Not only has the lockdown caused high street footfall to drop to almost zero, but the app's creators agreed that it would be reckless to continue to offer the location-based feature while people are stuck in their homes. The app has had to adapt to allow users to browse a list of deals from home, a new feature that it plans to keep after the lockdown for those at home looking for deals.
Founder Glenn Reid commented on the changes: "As a fairly young start-up company we’re robust enough to respond to threats such as COVID-19 quickly. We were able to add a new feature that allows consumers to enjoy dip whilst isolating. But also, this feature allows retailers that are still operating to encourage sales on a new platform." He added, "if our recent download numbers are anything to go by, this was the right move for us.”
Data from the app's users has highlighted some important consumer trends. Customers are still looking for high-end and luxury items despite the crisis, the only difference being that they've now turned to online shopping and stores with delivery. Though the economic uncertainty caused by the outbreak has made people more aware of costs, they're still spending and are just seeking out more promotional offers.
Some of Belfast's smaller retailers who already had an online presence have seen an increase in demand due to the lockdown. "During these uncertain times, retailers and consumers must work together to stimulate trade," suggested Glenn Reid, adding that promotional offers may be more important right now for stimulating sales. We've seen similar approaches from firms using the recently launched Belfast Lockdown Economy website.
To help support local businesses that are still able to trade despite the lockdown, DIP is offering £25 of free advertising to all Sync NI readers using the credit code SYNC25. Businesses can register their promotional deals on the app over at https://www.dip-app.com/business and users can download the app on iOS and Android.
Source: Written based on press release
