Blog

Foursquare and American Express

June 30, 2011 by Jim Joseph — President, Lippe Taylor

I think a new day may just be beginning for location-based social media. Late last week Foursquare announced a new partnership with American Express, basically an expansion of a test market they had been running where American Express card members get special savings by checking into select retailers and restaurants using Foursquare.

I have to admit that I have been a late bloomer when it comes to location-based things. I have not seen the benefit to telling people where I am and where I am spending my money. I don't necessarily want people to know and I certainly could care less about being the Mayor of my local Starbucks. But now I get it.

If I can use my American Express card and get a special deal without having to clip a coupon or even scan my phone with the cashier, then I am in. And that's exactly what this new partnership allows: big savings that are just a tap away and then show up on the American Express statement as a credit.

Now I'll check in! Now I get it!

I believe that this is just the beginning of an industry that has had a slow start. Not anymore. Away we go!