Memphis startup Stiqrd launches mobile app for local loyalty and rewards program
November 18th, 2011
Hoping to build on last year's inaugural success, retailers across the country are gearing up for the second annual Small Business Saturday, which is sponsored by American Express and falls on Nov. 26.
And working with several local stores to boost sales is Memphis-based mobile app developer Stiqrd, a startup company that graduated earlier this year from the Seed Hatchery program.
Stiqrd -- pronounced stickered -- is a customer loyalty and rewards program tracker that replaces traditional punch cards and barcoded key tags with a free smartphone app.
The digital download employs a QR code scanning system that allows customers to keep up with rewards programs and rebates via mobile devices.
In order to promote Small Business Saturday, a number of merchants have signed on to use the Stiqrd system to encourage customers to shop locally on the weekend after Thanksgiving.
"By making this push alongside Small Business Saturday, we thought it was a great way to get our app to people who could really use it," said Joe Pipkin, Stiqrd business developer. "Rewards and loyalty programs give shoppers a reason to keep coming back to the local stores they visit that Saturday. Both customers and retailers get the benefits of programs started for the holiday season."
Customers who download the app will see maps of the participating stores and get information about rewards programs. Some of the businesses that have signed on for the program include Celtic Crossing, Midtown Acupuncture, The Purple Door Forever Fit, Fred Astaire Dance Studio and Albert Cook Plumbing.
"It's just wonderful to see this local company participate in this national campaign by supporting our small businesses," said Tamara Cook, director of the Cooper Young Business Association.
In addition to independent shops, non-profit organizations such as the National Ornamental Metal Museum are also using the app.
"We always look for ways to effectively use technology to reach the local community and encourage them to become repeat visitors, or better yet, members," said Carissa Hussong, executive director of the museum.
For more information about Stiqrd, go to stiqrd.com. Learn more about small businesses and entrepreneurship in Memphis at The CA's startupmemphis.com
-- James Dowd: (901) 529-2737