Devoted to small businesses and those who run them

I first twigged to the concept of online discount coupons when I started to do more transactions on the web -

• memberships
• courses
• hosting
• web products
• books
• software

When I entered my details I noticed a space for a Coupon Code. It may also be called Promotion Code, Discount Code, Special Offer Code or other variation.

I was miffed that I didn't have a code and had no idea where to get one. This is a feeling shared by many it seems. 

Jayne O'Donnell of USA Today reports

At any time, up to 75% of online retailers offer a place to log in a discount code before checkout, experts estimate.

O'Donnell also points out that a space for a coupon code only indicates that the company sometimes offers one. It's not necessarily a permanent offer. That makes me feel a bit better.

Implications For Small Business Owners
From a small business owner point of view, competing with deep discounting is tough. Having a point of difference including personal service and going the extra mile often keep loyal customers.

Sometimes the lure of the deep discount is too strong even for the most loyal customers. Who could blame someone for buying the latest bestseller for 4 cents?

Does coupon discounting affect your business?

What do you do to stay ahead of the competition?