Gloucester introduces Text-a-Card local offers scheme for tourists

The city of Gloucester has expanded its GL Card scheme, which gives residents access to exclusive offers in local businesses, out to include visitors and tourists using a mobile version of the card.

The GL Card can be scanned at eight kiosks around the city, in order to print out the current vouchers.  Since its launch in April, over 3,500 vouchers have been printed, with a redemption rate of 60-70 per cent.

Marketing Gloucester, working with technology partner Rewarding Visits, has developed Text-a-Card, which is being trialled over the course of the summer.  Visitors can text their postcode to a shortcode in order to receive a free digital version of the card, valid for seven days. They can print vouchers by scanning an on-screen QR code at the kiosks.

Gloucester has become the UKs fastest-growing tourism destination, with the number of day visitors increasing from 2m in 2013 to 3.1m in 2015.

“Text-a-Card is a great addition to the visitor experience in Gloucester,” said Jason Smith, CEO of Marketing Gloucester. “I am delighted that tourists from near and far will be able to sample the excellent range of attractions, shops and eateries, whilst supporting local businesses who are actively engaging with new and existing customers. It is a step in the right direction as we develop the GL Card into a comprehensive city pass.”