Zappon.co.za launches today

It is also intended to benefit from well-established online presences such as TimesLive and SowetanLive, which already enjoy engagement and penetration in the digital environment. Local partners include Digital Solutions Group (DSG), RSAweb and August Sun Projects.

In the vein of similar 'daily deal' offerings, it will advertise a new deal each day via the various channels, all targeted to different cities. Deals will range from 40-90% off and are typically at least 50% off.

"The daily deal space is on the cusp of maturing in South Africa," says Zappon creator and GM of Avusa Media Live, Elan Lohmann. "Other players - both local and international entrants - have been working to create the beginnings of a market for us and we feel that now is the right time for us to enter.

"From an advertising perspective, we definitely have a competitive advantage. Not only do our existing advertisers and suppliers inherently trust our brands but we are currently offering clients massive media exposure to roughly two million readers a day via print, direct mail, website and social media channels - all at no charge. Which other group-buying platform can offer the credibility and trust that these brands can provide, at no cost?"

Marrying advertising and retail, the relatively new group buying concept makes strategic sense for the company with its brands already targeting and advertising to an established and loyal audience.

"We know that we are entering into an incredibly competitive market but feel this is perfect timing for the launch. We've rallied all of our resources - both internally and with the assistance of external partners - to turn around another great product for our consumers," he concludes.