Mobilab Launches Location-Based Service

Mobilab takes the next step in mobile coupon development: Late yesterday it launched Kupong.se Checkin, a location-based service. When users come to a store and check in via Facebook Places, they get a text message with a unique code for a coupon that can be used directly. Swedish newsstand Pressbyrån is first to use the service. The first 10,000 of its customers to check in will get a free cup of coffee, and more coupon campaigns are set to follow.

"Facebook Places was launched in Sweden in early January and it gave us the possibility to buiild and test Kupong.se Checkin," says Joachim Alvarez, product manager at Mobilab. "The service is both brand-building and sales-driving at the same time, which makes it exciting for both the brand owner and the store chains."

With the new campaign, Pressbyrån and other customers can raise their profiles on Facebook, since it shows up in users' news feeds when they've downloaded a coupon. For Mobilab, every campaign gives it an extra boost for its own brand.

"Our purpose with the cell-phone campaign was to make our services visible and increase the use of our technology," says Alvarez. "And when it comes to users, we're convinced taht they'll appreciate the service because it gives rewards in real time."