An IPhone App rewards shoppers for setting foot in stores
Currently available for the iPhone, Shopkick’s free app dispenses “kickbucks” reward points for a variety of consumer actions, including standard check-ins at or near the store. It also goes beyond the check-in, however, and rewards consumers further for actually entering the store. An audio transmitter in each participating store emits an inaudible signal that’s nevertheless detected by the app on the consumer’s phone, according to a report in the New York Times, thereby proving that he or she is in the store. That, in turn, entitles the shopper not just to kickbucks but to exclusive deals as well. Participating retailers currently include Best Buy, Macy’s, American Eagle and Sports Authority in New York, Los Angeles, San Francisco and Chicago, as well as assorted stores in Miami, Dallas and Minneapolis. Eligible visits per day, not surprisingly, are limited. Meanwhile, Shopkick also offers consumers additional rewards when they use their phones to scan products off the shelves. However they’re earned, kickbucks can be redeemed for rewards like gift cards, Facebook credits, iPads, music downloads, donations to causes and more.
