Groupon announced the launch of a new service for “premium” deals called Groupon Reserve. According to the company, it’s a destination for “the finest things to eat, see, do and buy.”
So all those other Groupons are like coach, and this is like first class, apparently.
“Reserve is an important step in Groupon’s journey from a daily deals company to a leading marketplace for online deals, where consumers can come to Groupon and discover great businesses at unbeatable prices,” a spokesperson for Groupon tells WebProNews.
Groupon Reserve is launching with Savored.com’s reservations engine, which lets customers book tables at restaurants at discounts of up to 40%. The service will expand to include more premium deals from various beauty, product, travel and entertainment brands.
CEO Eric Lefkofsky writes, “Groupon Reserve is an important step in our journey to become the leading marketplace for online deals, where consumers can come to Groupon and discover great businesses at unbeatable prices. As Groupon has evolved, we’ve seen growing demand from our customers for upscale offers and exclusive experiences. Reserve gives the most prestigious brands a new way to reach our large and desirable audience.”
Customers can get their checks discounted without pre-payments or vouchers. Local businesses, Groupon says, get a tool to drive traffic during slow periods.
“Whether it’s because of a slow night or a last minute no-show, even the best restaurants have empty tables,” Lefkofsky said. “Reserve provides these businesses with a yield management solution to bring customers through their doors at the times they need them the most.”
The product is launching in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Denver, Los Angeles, Miami, New York City, Philadelphia, San Francisco and Washington, D.C. More cities are coming this year, both in the U.S. and internationally. It’s starting off with over 600 restaurants.
Groupon acquired Savored last year.