Miconex puts local loyalty to the test

A LOYALTY programme developed by a Perth technology company is being launched to help independent local businesses track customer data and provide rewards to their patrons.

Diane Brown, Colin Munro and Stuart Oliver (right) of Provender Brown, which is one of the retailers pioneering the programme. Picture: Fraser Band

The scheme has been developed by Miconex and will be trialled initially by three local retailers. The firm is best-known for its Mi phone apps, which promote local firms using digital channels.

Chief executive Colin Munro is rolling out the loyalty programme after winning £99,000 in initial funding from the Technology Strategy Board’s “Re-inventing the High Street” competition.

Miconex is the latest of a number of start-ups looking to boost the fortunes of independent retailers by offering Tesco-style reward schemes. Local shops were particularly hard hit during the downturn, caught between the major multiple retailers and the rise of online shopping. Those taking part in the Perth trial are Provender Brown, Exel Wines and Blend Café.