South Korean location-based coupon application provider Yap Company said it has agreed to export its technology to Starbucks stores in Hong Kong, beefing up its efforts to tap into the Chinese market.
Yap currently operates an application in South Korea which allows users to download coupons and discount information related to shops located near the users, including major franchises.
It stands out from its rivals as it uses what it calls “hybrid beacon” technology, which automatically displays discount information when a user enters registered stores.
The company said its beacon technology will be applied to the latest service at Starbucks in Hong Kong, which allows users to order drinks through an application and receive them upon arrival.
The service is available for the first batch of 11 shops but will gradually increase to 140 in the near future, the company said.
Yap Company has been making efforts to tap the overseas market, including rolling out a Vietnamese edition in February. It also received 22 billion won (US$18.9 million) from Hong Kong-based New World Group in July.
It also has a Chinese-language edition for tourists visiting South Korea.
- Original reporting Yonhap, via KoreaBizwire.com
