Just because you're in college doesn't mean you can't have your gourmet meal and eat it, too. While you're at it, work an occasional massage into your schedule, or even a trip to the bowling alley with a big group of friends.
Collective buying companies, such as LivingSocial.com and Groupon.com, are helping Gators save money by providing discounts to their favorite restaurants, hot spots and local amenities. The bargains are doing their part to bring more business to the Gainesville area, and provide students and families with cost-effective ways to enjoy.
LivingSocial.com allows users to sign up for day-by-day deals on food, leisure and more, including travel offers every Wednesday that expire after a week. The company opened its Gainesville market on Jan.13, and members can choose to receive offers for multiple cities at a time.
The company, which activated its first voucher in Washington, D.C. in July 2009, has offered Gainesville 50 percent off at David's Real Pit BBQ and Fresco Neighborhood Italian. It has also offered a package of six boot camp classes at Gator CrossFit to help users work off those discounted meals.
Maire Griffin, director of communications for LivingSocial, said the company stations a representative in each of its markets, enabling members to receive deals that define their cities and complement their lifestyles.
"We work directly with merchants to come up with offers that will resonate in each location," Griffith said. "You have that employee who knows the city and understands the dynamics."
From a merchant's perspective, LivingSocial guarantees progress by allowing staff members to track the exact number of sold coupons and interested consumers. Unlike traditional advertising, Griffith said local companies aren't required to pay for something that's all about discovery.
Collective buying websites can also help residents network and expand. Users are presented with opportunities for things to eat, see and do. They can also uncover new ways to explore their city.
Kelsey O'Neill, spokesperson for Groupon.com, said the company has served about 35,000 people in Gainesville since it launched in November. From desserts to cosmetics and automobile detailing to dry cleaning, there are 60 local companies working with Groupon to reach new markets and connect with potential customers.
"Groupon drives a guaranteed number of customers through the door," O'Neill said. "The real value of Groupon is the lasting relationships local merchants are able to build with these new consumers."
O'Neill said the company decided to launch in Gainesville because of UF. She said the college town has plenty to see and do - making it a perfect match for the Groupon model.
"Groupon allows students to explore their campus and try new things, without breaking the bank," she said.
Groupon offers are accessible on the Internet, and customers are connected to discounts on a daily basis through e-mail and social media sites. Also, offers can be accessed through smart phone applications, allowing discount access on-the-go.
UF linguistics senior Rachel Christie became a member a few months ago when she downloaded the company application on her phone.
One of her first deals was a discounted spa package she redeemed in West Palm Beach. She picked up the offer as an anniversary present for her parents, and said she immediately fell in love with the website.
Alley Gatorz is one of the local companies that have partnered with Groupon.com. The full-service bowling center, arcade and lounge noticed an increase in business since the coupons were released.
Alley Gatorz owner Dawn Odato said the deals are great for families and students, as well as for the business, and she plans to continue working with Groupon.
"It turned out to bring a lot of people in," Odato said.
There have been approximately 290 coupons redeemed since its activation, she said, and members were able to bowl with friends for about 70 percent less than the regular price.
These companies have allowed businesses looking to stay afloat and students looking to cut corners to get exactly what they need at affordable values.
As a member and college student, Christie said she loves receiving her daily deal. She said the concept is designed for The Gator Nation.
"Who loves deals more than college students? For that matter, who needs them more than us?"
