We would look at fixing rules for each merchant on a case by case basis. In this instance we would ensure that the discount code site is not promising a “unique” code so would probably ensure that the offer was displayed with a click here to visit site link, instead of click to reveal code.

Matt

“So for example, with a gaming merchant they would not be able to advertise the free sign up bonus that all customers are eligible for”…

Not sure I’m clear on this… do you mean they’d not be able to advertise full stop, or advertise via the click to drop a cookie/reveal method?

Jason

I agree that this is an issue but again it is one that networks seem slow to tackle. The cynic may say that this is because they are earning commission from this practice, but let’s give them the benefit of the doubt for now as I know a lot of networks are investing heavily in tackling the voucher code issue.

At i-level we are in the process of rewriting all of our Ts and Cs and going forward all of our merchants will state the following in their terms: “Voucher code/Discount code sites are permitted to promote Merchant X however any offers or codes displayed must be currently valid. Any expired offers/codes must be clearly marked.”

We will then outline, on a merchant by merchant basis, what is considered valid on each campaign. As a general rule it will have to be a legitimate discount code authorised for use in the affiliate channel that will give the customer a tangible benefit that they wouldn’t get otherwise. So for example, with a gaming merchant they would not be able to advertise the free sign up bonus that all customers are eligible for.

Our feeling is that this sector is a very valuable one for our merchants but, as you say Jason, it needs to be a little less Wild West before we will get our clients to fully embrace it.

Matt Bailey
Head of Affiliate
i-level

Great post thanks for the insight!

Scott

Not sure when/if this is scheduled to happen, but I believe it’s coming.