Google Offers looks and operates much like Groupon, sending users a daily email with the local deal of the day, reported Mashable when it broke the news last week.
Recipients can buy the offer with a specific time limit and once enough people have opted-in, the offer is activated. Google Offers will be powered by Google Checkout.
“There are plenty of Groupon clones out there right now (LivingSocial, Buywithme, Eversave etc) but none of them with either the financial clout or buzz surrounding them," said Steve Blakeman, chief strategy officer for Asia-Pacific at Mediabrands.
"Google clearly want a piece of the action and after having their bid for Groupon rejected it was only a matter of time before they launched their own competitive platform,” he added.
Google tried to buy Groupon for US$6 billion last year. The social commerce site instead opted for a US$15 billion IPO.
In a statement released to Mashable, Google essentially confirmed the launch:
“Google is communicating with small businesses to enlist their support and participation in a test of a pre-paid offers/ vouchers programme. This initiative is part of an ongoing effort at Google to make new products, such as the recent Offer Ads beta, that connect businesses with customers in new ways. We do not have more details to share at this time, but will keep you posted.”
Reported earlier in January, Groupon announced it has completed a US$950 million round of financing as it prepares to expand globally.
