Using voucher codes, does it make you a code affiliate?

[scriptmonkey]

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I'm just about to add vouchercode functionality to the affiliate window wordpress plugin, whereby, if the merchant whose products you are showing have a voucher code, the visitor will be shown the code, no trickery, no clickery, just the code and if applicable, the specific landing URL. I have a question.

If you show voucher codes on your site, does that move you into a different affiliate category?

Or is it affiliates that mainly use voucher codes to drive traffic to merchants that are Voucher Code Affiliates?

Thanks.

[Mogga]

When I've asked previously what the definition is of a voucher code no-one has beenn able to say.

The most recent definition I think came in the recent john lewis email...

A vouchercode directory is defined as the following:



· The URL Contains the following or derivatives of these terms: ‘code’ ‘vouchercode’ ‘promotional code’ ‘voucher’ ‘coupon’

· Website appears in search engine listings under any of the terms or derivatives of those outlined above

· Website’s primary focus is to promote the use of vouchercodes


Which reminds me I need to chase up that list of urls to check they are ok.

[kier]

Merchant's policies on this are going to vary so there isn't a fixed terminology or definition. Some don't want any sites using codes promoting them, some will only restrict what they consider to be 'code directories'. Some will take things on a case by case basis depending on the value they think you can add.

[ash]

Excellent addition to the plugin! Has been great to see the plugin develop as it is, and its a bargain too!

On the subject, i would'nt class affiliates using your plugin as voucher code affiliates, otherwise what is the use in issuing codes at all?

[scriptmonkey]

I'll add the function and make it optional, so that it can be switched on or off by the site admin.

I agree ash, if they issue vouchers, then those vouchers are to be used.

Kier, if merchants don't want to be promoted via codes, then presumably, they won't issue any?

[Hero]

if merchants don't want to be promoted via codes, then presumably, they won't issue any?

that's one way to do it. The other is you offer them to specific channels and/or customer segments, one of which is NOT affiliates.

[kier]

Kier, if merchants don't want to be promoted via codes, then presumably, they won't issue any?

It depends. Some will issue them but only want them posted on a certain kind of site or in return for some specific method of promotion, some will issue codes through other channels but not for affiliates etc. Best bet is always to check ther t&cs of the program and if still in doubt contact the merchant.

[scriptmonkey]

Ah, I see Kier, I forget that there are many forms of partnership between merchant and affiliate.

In the case that I'm coding, then these codes are all issued through the awin voucher codes csv, and, as far as I'm aware, they are for general usage, and there will be NO additional codes displayed other than the ones issued by awin.

[scriptmonkey]

I'm pleased to say that the coding is done, the voucher codes are now in place, and as a little bonus, theres a sidebar widget which interacts with the page to show the voucher codes in.

A single product example page is here.

Single product id 43995335 | WiiXiiW

A multiple product/multiple merchant page is here.

Hotpoint Washing Machines with code at bottom and in sidebar | WiiXiiW

In its current state, then the only method available to interact with is the merchant IDs that are in the main page, leading to some very slightly off topic codes, hopefully with V3 of the API, this situation will change.

All purchasers will have received the upgrade about 10 minutes ago, all users of the free version will have it by tomorrow afternoon.

[lizdav]

When I've asked previously what the definition is of a voucher code no-one has beenn able to say.

The most recent definition I think came in the recent john lewis email...

A vouchercode directory is defined as the following:

· The URL Contains the following or derivatives of these terms: ‘code’ ‘vouchercode’ ‘promotional code’ ‘voucher’ ‘coupon’

· Website appears in search engine listings under any of the terms or derivatives of those outlined above

· Website’s primary focus is to promote the use of vouchercodes


Which reminds me I need to chase up that list of urls to check they are ok.

Which also reminds me that some merchants haven't a clue or push emails out without thinking too hard. Is it any one of those conditions that defines a site as a vouchercode directory or all three points that need to be met?

Clarity ... Clarity ... Clarity please.

Look at bullet 2. If I promote someone's code, then I would darned well hope that it appears in the search engines using one of the listed terms.

I assume that no one at all is now allowed to promote John Lewis if they have any ‘code’ ‘vouchercode’ ‘promotional code’ ‘voucher’ ‘coupon’ reference ANYWHERE on their site .... it is a nonsensical bullet. It adds no credible reason for denying an affiliate access to the program. Codes are for promoting bvia SEO etc or else what is the point?

[Rachel Humphreys]

Hi Lizdav

John Lewis do not issue discount codes any longer. Due to this, they don't feel that appearing on a website whose predominent promotional method is to highlight codes to customers, is relevant to them. If you or other affiliates are unsure if your website constitutes a vouchercode directory, we are more than happy to look at individual cases so please contact me on the below details.

Thanks

Rachel

[Media_Lad]

Vouchers are currently working best for restaurants as people tend to spend less on dining out due to obvious reasons.

Planning strategically prior to sending voucher codes is an important bit to see whether it would work...

[maverick]

I got kicked off a program recently for being a "pure play voucher site" even though the vouchers are listed alongside product details in a shopping site with over 10 million products listed.

[lizdav]

Hi Lizdav

John Lewis do not issue discount codes any longer. Due to this, they don't feel that appearing on a website whose predominent promotional method is to highlight codes to customers, is relevant to them. If you or other affiliates are unsure if your website constitutes a vouchercode directory, we are more than happy to look at individual cases so please contact me on the below details.

Thanks

Rachel

Rachel,

I am comfortable with my sites and my compliance with John Lewis and others that have taken such a stance, but my point is that some things are sent out relating to actions on voucher code sites that make no sense. This is an example irrespective as to which side of the argument you are on about what constitutes a voucher code site.

Maybe I am being pedantic, but every commercial site will have the word 'code' somewhere surely. To suggest that it is a reason for a blanket ban is preposterous.

I understand John Lewis's rationale behind points 1 & 3, but point 2 is just silly IMO.

[Rachel Humphreys]

This isn't a blanket ban - as I have mentioned to all affiliates, if you would like to discuss your circumstances with me I am happy to listen, take on board any feedback and discuss with John Lewis.

With regards to point 2 of the definition of a vouchercode directory I would like to refer you to Google and the term 'vouchercodes'. All of the sites listed on the first 3 pages are obvious destinations for customers seeking vouchercodes. So is your question, 'what happens if a listing appears for this term on page 50?'

Answer: If you're not predominently a vouchercode directory but you have a listing on page 'x' in Google under the term 'vouchercode' (or similar terms) all you need to do is get in touch.

Thanks

Rachel