Fashion retailer joined the likes of Debenhams and Argos to launch a new Facebook Deals service

Republic will give shoppers access to exclusive offers and promotions with a new Facebook Deals service implemented and managed by mobile and e-commerce provider, One iota.

Deals will be activated when users ‘check-in’ on their mobile phone through Facebook to Republic stores in Manchester, Sheffield, Birmingham, Leeds and London.

Republic has recently embarked on a period of rapid expansion. In 2010, the retailer launched a social media strategy that has already clocked up over 43,000 Facebook fans. Using Facebook Deals, Republic hopes to drive local retail footfall through Facebook and tap into the growing number of mobile users who are using their phones to source products, compare prices and seek out the best deals on the High Street.

Localising e-commerce with social networking

One iota’s chief executive, Damian Hanson, who worked closely with Republic on the launch, commented: “Facebook Deals provides bricks-and-mortar retail stores with a huge opportunity to create new customers and drive loyalty. The ability to attract custom through ‘local Facebook commerce’ is something that can’t be ignored. Facebook Deals is destined to become a key component in the multichannel strategy, fuelled by the growth in social media consumption through mobile devices.”

Natalie Primus, head of social media at Republic, said: “We wanted to drive increased and repeat footfall by rewarding and incentivising our customers – Facebook Deals allows us to do this quickly and efficiently. One iota’s expertise and knowledge of the Facebook platform has been invaluable in supporting our goals.”

The initial campaign will provide customers with discounts of up to 20%. Users simply have to ‘check-in’ to receive their Republic Facebook Deal, which can then be redeemed in store at the point of payment.