Local app aims to help shoppers save

LAST week marked the launch of Tickit, a locally deigned smartphone app which provides users with a range of discounts to more than 100 Ballarat businesses.

Users pay $14.99 a month and can save Tickits to their profile to use when they visit local retailers.

The idea started from Sam Griffin, the owner of Griffin Burger, who wanted to find a membership app for his restaurants which didn’t charge high fees for small businesses.

“We’ve all got our own businesses but none of us have a dedicated membership program and to get something that stacks up with bigger companies is really hard,” he said.

“I’m always looking for new apps for Griffin Burger to use and even with delivery platforms you sign up and then take 30 per cent commission.

“The way this app has worked out means that no business is paying commission and there are no contracts or fees.”

When the team at Campana’s heard about the idea they decided it would be perfect for their business.

“When Sam first spoke to me, I thought what a great idea, you get a genuine discount, you don’t have to buy to get points,” said Lou Campana.

“For 15 bucks a month you can save upwards of $300 if you want to go to 10 businesses for that month.”

Some deals on the app are $20 off Faulls Shoes, a free medium coffee with any pie at Emma’s Bakery and 25 per cent off indoor plants at Avalon Nursery.

The app has 17 categories such as beauty services, physiotherapists, gym memberships and hospitality venues.

Mr Griffin said he hopes it will encourage people to visit locally owned businesses.

“My end goal is for people to use this when they’re travelling to Ballarat rather than opening up Google and searching,” he said.

In future Mr Griffin hopes to add accommodation, tourist attraction and trade offerings.

Tickit is available to download from the Apple App Store or Google Play.