The backlash against discount and deals websites – are you cutting back?

by Nazma Noor on March 21st, 2012

Recent reports have suggested that use of discounts and deal websites such as Groupon are on the decline. Vote in our poll and tell us if you’ve decreased your use of these sites.

For some people, shopping on discount and deal websites has become a part of their everyday life. Groupon, one of the most popular discount websites boasts over 414,000 Facebook fans on their US page and over 82,000 Facebook fans on their UK page. However a report released this week by a research group in Australia reported a 34% fall in “group-buying” transactions on websites such as Groupon.

Despite its success, Groupon have come under fire since they were founded in 2008 and are currently under investigation from the OFT regarding exaggerating discounts, failing to honour deals and “unfair terms”. Another deals website, Goodypass.com, which was backed by Daybreak presenter Kate Garraway, has been taking steps to stay afloat by making redundances and applying for a Company Voluntary Arrangement, which works in a similar way to an IVA.

Have you cut down on using deal and discount websites this year? Vote in our poll now and have your say.

Personally, I have been unsubscribed from Groupon and other similar sites for a few months now. I found the deals on offer didn’t appeal to me and I felt like I could do without the temptation to buy things I didn’t need. Stories of poor customer service have also made me think twice before purchasing from a deals/discount website.

Here are some other experiences of these websites:

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Posted in: against,backlash,cutting,deals,Discount,websites

Discount voucher websites could help those with debt problems save money

Consumers currently seeking debt advice may like to take advantage of the offers on discount voucher websites as it could help them save money on things such as eating out.

According to Richard Sorsky, money advice co-ordinator at the UK Insolvency Helpline, more people sought debt advice in January and February this year compared to 2009.

The main issues surrounding families was that they are struggling to pay nursery or school fees as many left it too late to get their child into the school they wanted and are now paying for private education.

He issued advice to those currently struggling with debt problems: "Take advantage of voucher websites because you can actually save a fortune using a voucher website.

"Get your bank statements out, sit down for a good hour and see exactly what purchases are necessary this month."

Consumers can then work out how much they have to spend on outgoings, clothes and themselves, without getting into more debt, he added.

The Consumer Credit Counselling Service reported an increase in those seeking debt help online in January than the same month in 2010.
Wed, 23 Feb 2011
Brits concerned about their debt problems, which have been accrued through borrowing on a credit card, may want to consider using a zero per cent balance transfer card... Tue, 22 Feb 2011
Around 430,000 students will be given a manual about how to manage their money and avoid debt problems in the process.

Finance charity Credit Action intends to give its guide on student finance to young people planning to attend university in the 2011/2012 school year.

The average student is expected to graduate with debts amounting to more than £23,000 so the charity has created a guide to inform youngsters about the financial support available, how to budget and how to save money.

This could help would-be students learn how to stay in control of their money and help them avoid debt problems while at university.

Joanna Parsley, associate director of Credit Action, said: "Getting this information and guidance into students' hands before they begin university is key as it allows them to prepare financially, so their university experience can get off to a smooth start."..

Mon, 21 Feb 2011
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Couples that are going through financial difficulties and seeking debt advice need to be "open and honest" with one another...

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Posted in: could,Discount,money,problems,those,voucher,websites