A free mobile phone app aimed at promoting local businesses and rewarding their customers is on trial on Redlands Coast.

The Redlands Coast Deals and Rewards App is an initiative of Redland City Council to encourage residents and visitors to shop locally and earn rewards in the process.

Redland City Mayor Karen Williams has urged businesses and residents to get on board and start using the app.

“We know Redlands Coast retailers already offer great value and exceptional services to shoppers but with this app, they can offer even more in return for customer loyalty,” she said.

“Shoppers earn points for each purchase and these can be used to unlock further in-store deals, redeem prizes and enter competitions.

“Using a smartphone to shop is becoming increasingly popular, so this easy to use app is a win for everyone.

“Shoppers can set up notifications to their phone so when they travel past a business they will receive an alert about the deals being done in-store.

“We believe it’s one of the first apps of its type to be delivered by a Council to businesses across an entire local government area.”

The app is easy to download from the Apple App Store and Google Play and will also give shoppers a local business directory and information on how to enter competitions.

Cr Williams said all information collected by the app would remain private.

“All data will be securely stored and only used to offer deals and other services to the user,” she said.

“It’s free for businesses to sign up for the initial three month trial and discover the world of benefits the app will bring them and their business on our naturally wonderful Redlands Coast.”

Redlands Coast Chamber of Commerce president Rebecca Young has urged business to support the new initiative.

“The app is a positive addition to our business community, giving the opportunity for retailers  to connect not only to potential customers but to one another,” she said.

“We would encourage all businesses to engage in the app to use it as a useful marketing tool.”

For further details, visit Council’s website.