Groupon is about to face stiff competition in the form of Google Offers, another group-buying service internet search giant Google is readying for launch.
Google Offers looks to be promising for Google, considering the company’s brand recognition and huge reach and advertising network.
Google is already talking with small businesses to get them involved in a test run of a pre-paid offers/vouchers program, Google said in a statement.
“This initiative is part of an ongoing effort at Google to make new products, such as the recent Offer Ads beta, that connect businesses with customers in new ways. We do not have more details to share at this time, but will keep you posted,” the statement added.
Google did not indicate when it expects to launch Google Offers.
The social-buying model offers users a discounted ‘deal of the day’ on a product or service in their town or city. Deals are centred around targeted local markets, which is what may make the model appealing to Google – it’s seen a significant source of internet advertising growth.
Google reportedly attempted to buy market-leader Groupon for up to US$6bn before being turned down last month.
Tina Costanza
