OK, is it me or is the appropriate reaction to this offer:
1. Cool – a chance to go see an iconic ‘80s band on the cheap
OR
2. Meh – this sure cheapens an ‘80s band that I used to like
Does a Groupon offer make a statement about the company or brand that offers it? And am I being too judgmental here?
You tell me.
President & Founder at Jacobs Media
Fred Jacobs founded Jacobs Media in 1983, and quickly became known for the creation of the Classic Rock radio format.
Jacobs Media has consistently walked the walk in the digital space, providing insights and guidance through its well-read national Techsurveys.
In 2008, jacapps was launched - a mobile apps company that has designed and built more than 1,300 apps for both the Apple and Android platforms. In 2013, the DASH Conference was created - a mashup of radio and automotive, designed to foster better understanding of the "connected car" and its impact.
Along with providing the creative and intellectual direction for the company, Fred consults many of Jacobs Media's commercial and public radio clients, in addition to media brands looking to thrive in the rapidly changing tech environment.
Fred was inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame in 2018.
Jacobs Media has consistently walked the walk in the digital space, providing insights and guidance through its well-read national Techsurveys.
In 2008, jacapps was launched - a mobile apps company that has designed and built more than 1,300 apps for both the Apple and Android platforms. In 2013, the DASH Conference was created - a mashup of radio and automotive, designed to foster better understanding of the "connected car" and its impact.
Along with providing the creative and intellectual direction for the company, Fred consults many of Jacobs Media's commercial and public radio clients, in addition to media brands looking to thrive in the rapidly changing tech environment.
Fred was inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame in 2018.
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Absolutely cheapens the band. I cringe every time I see a “deal of the day” offer for a concert. Why don’t they just run a direct special or give the tickets away? I think it does more damage when you discount through a site like Groupon. Yes, I guess they are making some money, but is 50% of the asking price really worth doing more harm to what’s left of the brand image of the band? I am keeping in mind that this is most likely through the promoter but I would imagine the band would have to agree to sales in this manner.
Paul, you read it like I did. Of course, some of these later commenters disagree, but I concur that Groupon has taken on a bit of a taint, and while it may be fine for a mattress or a car detailing, a rock band is a whole other thing. At least in my mind. Thanks for the comment.
In opposition to Paul Jarvis…my counterpoint is…bring on the discounts. I wouldn’t think ANY less of a band that could save me money on tickets to a show. In this economy–it could mean the difference of GOING to the show…or NOT going.
I don’t care if it’s Groupon, Ticketmaster, Live Nation…or whatEVER. If it’s a band I’d like to see, and I, as a consumer, can save…there’s no downside. I think listeners would agree. Hmmm…is this fodder for a morning “question of the day” or Facebook poll? (think like a consumer for a moment)
In a challenging economy, JC, you are right that a deal is a deal. And if Depeche Mode (and the promoter) make more money on this tour by providing better deals, it certainly works in the short run. But does it hurt the Depeche Mode brand? And is there any danger that those who paid full price a couple weeks ago feel like they got a bad deal when they see this Groupon? Thanks for adding to our conversation.
JC, to your last point, yes – it would probably make a good question for the people who matters – fans.
Question back at you…how is this different from stations’ VIP or Loyalty exclusive discount offers? This isn’t about the band’s product; it’s about what you have to pay and how to consume it. People only care about, “What’s in it for me?” The value of what your brand offers in the eyes of your customers is the most important evaluation to consider. I see a radio parallel with programmers who’d rather run some outrageous “attitude statement,”(about you) instead of using that opportunity to promote ways to us the station through mobile or streaming (about them).
Kevin, I would say this – loyalty clubs and discount offers are typically for third party services and events. But when Depeche Mode offers discounts on their shows, it feels different to me. It’s about their brand. But maybe as JC Haze points out, a deal is a deal, and that’s a service to consumers. Thanks for the thought and for reading our blog.
Correct me if I’m wrong, but doesn’t Groupon have a high usage rate among Hispanics?
And isn’t Depeche Mode well-known for its appeal among Hispanics?
This sounds like a promotion matched to the demographics to me.
K.M., I can’t argue with that logic! Thanks for chiming in.
It’s an ‘out of left field’ product offering. We’re used to seeing restaurants, car detailing and even tix to attractions, but if this is indeed DMode doing the discounting, they’re damaging what’s left of their brand. Would we see Rolling Stones, Bon Jovi, KISS or Foo Fighters on Groupon? I doubt these brands/bands would succumb to that space.
Also, getting an offer from a radio station of affinity fan club is presented differently than a “discount” of distressed merchandise.
Agree with you Brad. And I actually have seen Bon Jovi tickets being offered on Living Social. You can always tell what shows are not selling based on what shows up on the daily deals sites (they show up fairly often at least in the Boston area).
Brad, thanks for chiming in. In this case, a Groupon discount may in fact make a statement as you and Paul point out. Appreciate the perspective from both of you.
Being too judgmental,Fred. From out here on the fringes of the broadcast & music industries, we consumers just look at these kinds of offers as a good deal. Most of the folks I deal with on a daily basis are pinching pennies and looking for ways to make their dollar stretch further. Concert tickets, even lawn seats, are perceived to be overpriced. So, most people aren’t looking this gift horse in the mouth.
Buzz, you’re not alone with that opinion. I may be placing branding ahead of practical realities, and I appreciate the opinion. Thanks for chiming in.
Buzz, interesting observation.. When you don’t have a WCBS or KYW, you use other sources. And isn’t this where HD Radio could be playing a role? Thanks for checking in.