The social network extends functionality to merchants for increasing customer loyalty through special offers, rewards and discounts

The social network extends functionality to merchants for increasing customer loyalty through special offers, rewards and discounts

Facebook today has launched new functionality for consumers to claim special offers, rewards and discounts from top brands from their mobile phones.

Part of Facebook Places, Facebook Deals is designed to help users find offers in their local area from their mobile phone or discover money-saving tips from friends through their News Feed.

Following its launch in the US in November 2010, Deals launches today in the UK, France, Germany, Italy and Spain.

Facebook said that offers from Argos, Alton Towers Resort, Benetton, Mazda, O2 and YO! Sushi will be available through the social network in coming weeks. Details, including terms of the deals will be obtainable on each of the brands’ Facebook Pages.

Joanna Shields, Facebook vice president in Europe, Middle East and Africa, said: “We all love a bargain so whether you’re on the lookout for a special offer at your favourite restaurant or tips from a fashionista friend about a discount on shoes in a department store, Facebook Deals will help you find it."

Argos targets charity check-ins

Argos, as one of the first UK retailers to participate in Facebook Deals, which will offer customers special discounts and promotions when they check in using Facebook Places.

It also confirmed its promotion as a Facebook Charity Deal, with all proceeds going to Argos’ national charity partner Teenage Cancer Trust. Argos will donate £1 to Teenage Cancer Trust for the first 10,000 customers that use Facebook Deals to check in at an Argos store this week, starting today. Users check in via the most recent version of the Facebook app or your Smartphone at www.facebook.com to claim the Deal.

Argos also released the 75th edition of its catalogue on Saturday 22 January, which it said will be used in 17 million UK homes. It is also the first to incorporate Argos’ official Facebook page.

At www.facebook.com/argos, fans can access a ‘showcase’ of new Argos ranges, share ideas and discover engaging content with links to products on argos.co.uk.

Over the Argos catalogue launch weekend, Argos added that saw its Facebook fans almost double to over 60,000.

Jim Clear, Argos digital brand development manager, commented: “Argos is committed to social media and our adoption of Facebook Deals is a way to engage customers and receive timely insight and feedback. The size and reach of Argos made us a natural launch participator for Facebook Deals in the UK. We are excited to use this important new UK social media platform to enhance our partnership with Teenage Cancer Trust in a way that speaks to our Facebook fans and Teenage Cancer Trust supporters.”