Tutuka.com, a local business-to-consumer (B2C) savings site, and JHI Real Estate, the property services and management group, are launching a retail initiative aimed at driving consumers back into shopping malls. The companies` B2C marketing mechanism aims to join old and new economies.
The "Web-assisted" shopping mall campaign will take place from 27 to 29 October with more than 35 retail outlets based in Rosebank Mall. The roll-out will include 21 national, JHI-managed shopping malls over the next 18 months and is thought to be a first for the local retail property marketplace.
"Tutuka.com will host over 35 Rosebank Mall retailers at one central point that allows consumers to search for special offers and savings before they venture into the mall," says Robert Coutts, MD of Tutuka.com.
"Research shows that only 14% of Internet users are prepared to part with credit card details online and the balance of Net users research products via the Internet, but fulfilment and volume remains in real world stores. This has formed the beginnings of what is referred to as `Web-assisted commerce`.
"Retailers are realising that their LSM 7 and 8 targets are the primary online users, but also the most discerning when it comes to the value of the offerings. With active Internet users expected to reach 2.4 million by the end of this year, primarily from super group income status, retailers have realised that the Net can no longer be ignored. However, the costs for small to medium business in setting up an online presence are prohibitive and the implications complex," says Coutts.
"The Tutuka.com offering gives the retailer access to full Net capability and consumer reach, while providing the shopper with a reminder and an incentive to travel to the mall.
"Placing mall retailers in a central location on the Net adds great value for the consumer, providing a comprehensive shopping experience. All special offers can be accessed by logging onto www.tutuka.com, searching according to mall and product category, printing out the bar-coded coupon and then redeeming in store."
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