Mobile marketing and technology firm 2ergo has launched its TikTap contactless mobile voucher redemption solution, which enables High Street retailers to offer shoppers a range of instant and exclusive offers that can be redeemed via their smartphone.
TikTap is enabled via a pod that plugs directly into a retailer’s EPOS system. The device enables consumers to redeem coupons and offers by simply downloading the TikTap app, which is available for iOS and Android. The app stores details of all live deals and offers in the area – users can then ‘tik’ the ones that appeal. When in store, the user simply taps their mobile phone over the pod to redeem the offer.

There’s no NFC (Near Field Communication) technology involved though. The communication between the phone and the pod happens via a wi-fi connection. The Android version of the app can switch in the wi-fi connectivity automatically; for iPhone, it’s a manual process. This means that the solution works with all currently-available smartphones. It has also been designed to work with NFC-enabled handsets as more of these are released. 2ergo says the TikTap pod is compatible with nearly all models of EPOS terminal.

2ergo is working with retailers, local councils and EPOS distributors and software providers including Geller, Casio, YCR and ICRTouch to roll out the technology across UK High Streets. The solution is launching initially in Preston and Southport, with towns such as Skegness including the technology as a core element in their applications for Portas Fund grants to regenerate High Street revenues.

“TikTap is a simple, effective, cost-effective technology that will drive real results for independent retailers across the UK,” says TikTap’s Michael Dougherty. “Mobile marketing has been traditionally viewed as a channel for national retail chains, but TikTap turns this on its head and provides a way for the High Street as a whole to harness the technology that 50 per cent of the public already carry around and refer to in their purchasing decisions when shopping. TikTap simply plugs into existing IT and EPOS, meaning there’s no requirement to invest in costly bespoke mobile infrastructure.”