Technology when it comes to attracting and keeping customers

It wasn’t long ago that consumers used brochures or discount cards that companies offered to try to attract the attention of new customers. However, technology has made its way into attracting customers both by recycling previous systems through digital versions and by offering new alternatives.

The origins: brochures and cards

Initially, customers received brochures in their mailbox or even on the street to discover a new local business. Among the information offered, it was possible to find in many cases a promotional code that could be used on the first visit to the establishment.

Another option was cards that offered a discount that could be a percentage or a fixed amount. To these were added the loyalty cards that customers filled out with each purchase to obtain a free unit or another prize or discount.

Two Stamps by illustir, on Flickr
“Two Stamps” (CC BY 2.0)by illustrate

These methods are so effective that have remained in many sectors during years. In fact, it could be said that they have not disappeared, but have adapted to the new times.

The arrival of new technologies

Once mobile technology reached the majority of homes in many countries around the world, companies chose to go digital for all the advantages it offers. For starters, online options allow you to reach more potential customers, but also keep in touch and reward current customers or customers who, for any reason, decided to stop using the products or services offered.

Thus, most websites offer the option to sign up for the offers section simply by using your email or phone number. The great advantage of this change is at a logistical level, since the classic mailing is eliminated and a greater number of clients can be reached.

The cards are also in the process of disappearing and most supermarket chains, for example, already offer digital versions and even applications to access even more offers and promotions when creating the account. Another sector that is making the most of this option is gaming, which offers a wide selection of bookmaker bonuses so that users have additional balance for free and can familiarize themselves with the system and the options it offers before committing.

mobile android and ios loyalty card app by osde8info, on Flickr
“mobile android and ios loyalty card app” (CC BY-SA 2.0)by osde8info

This system is also the preferred system of any subscription-based product or service and most companies of this type offer free trials that can range from one week to several months. In this way, users can explore the content to make sure it suits their needs and compare various options.

And let’s not forget the ecological impact, since all these digital options reduce the use of paper. In fact, in addition to minimizing said impact, companies can boast of environmentalism in front of their users while doing their bit to prevent climate consequences.