Shop Local Perks expands to Hamilton
The web-based app features local businesses offering deals for customers
An online platform offering perks to local customers has made its way to Hamilton.
Shop Local Perks, which launched in London last October, is up and running in Hamilton as of this week, said Shane Harrison, co-founder of the mobile loyalty program.
“We’re a company that’s trying to help local businesses kind of fend off the big-box stores,” Harrison recently told The Spectator.
Here’s how it works: people looking for deals can sign up for a free membership on the webbased app. There’s a code to get on the platform, which is given out on cards at various events and at local businesses that have hopped on board Shop Local Perks.
For $1,200 a year, businesses can sign up to be part of the platform.
Local companies that sign on have to offer a perk exclusive to the Shop Local Perks platform, Harrison said. In return, they get the analytics of who is looking at and shopping at their business on the platform, he said.
Businesses run the gamut, from restaurants to garage door companies, said Harrison.
According to the Shop Local Perks Hamilton website, the dozen local businesses that have signed on include Crescendo Law, HomeShare Alliance, That Hair Doctor, Jaden Printing Services, Renegade Xtreme Fitness and The Marketing Company.
For Shop Local Perks, a local business does not necessarily mean an independent company. Chain operations are eligible to participate if the owner lives and operates in the community, Harrison said.
The company has also created a fundraising platform similar to coupon books. To support a sports team or whatever cause the fundraiser chooses, consumers can buy a one-time use perk booklet as well as receive a membership for the digital platform, Harrison said.
The idea for Shop Local Perks began percolating back in 2013, said Harrison, whose business partners include Jay Abbott, Erin Goris and Ryan Beliveau — all from the London area.
After launching in London close to a year ago, they have expanded to Waterloo Region and Lambton County and plan to also open in Elgin County. They hope to be operating in at least a dozen cities by this time next year, Harrison said.
‘‘ We’re a company that’s trying to help local businesses kind of fend off the big-box stores. SHANE HARRISON
Co-founder of Shop Local Perks