A new app is being introduced to give something back to shoppers who support local businesses in Inishowen.
More than forty businesses have already expressed an interest in the app, which aims to reward customers and support local communities.
The LightHouse social enterprise, as part of the Inishowen Development Partnership, is behind the initiative.
“The interest has been really positive with a good number already in the process of signing up,” a spokesperson said.
The app will operate through VillagePod – a contactless and online payment system which focuses on Virtual Gift Cards & Digital Rewards. These features will allow businesses to reward their customers through a digital loyalty scheme and excitingly give local businesses the opportunity to offer both electronic gifting possibilities. It is anticipated that this will be of interest not only to local customers but for those living away, looking for the ideal local gift. Their newest addition to the suite of offerings is a physical gift card as there are still a cohort of people who prefer to have something tangible to put into that birthday card.
Each transaction fee has a built in contribution towards a community cause – nominated by the retailer. It’s free to sign up and an easy onboarding process, which will be perfect timing for the run up to Christmas.
The Lighthouse is currently calling on Inishowen businesses to sign up for the app ahead of its launch in the area in the near future.
“The more retailers, businesses and their customers that sign up for it, the more effective it will be and Inishowen we believe has the potential geography to do it really well,” the spokesperson said.
For more information on this and to see if it would suit your business, either contact LightHouse@inishowen.ie at IDP for more info or phone VillagePod directly on 086 0215688 or email louise.oneill@villagepod.app