In a move that underscores the link between online research and offline shopping, Google will offer printable coupons for selected searches on its Google Maps feature.
The first phase of the initiative will partner Google with Valpak Direct Marketing Systems, a division of Cox Enterprises, and will offer 20,000 coupons from current Valpak marketers, updated daily. Valpak already offers printable coupons over its Web site as well as via direct mail.
Local business owners can add the coupons, co-branded as both Google and Valpak offerings, to their business profiles in the Google Local Business Center. The service is free to owners. Google will also allow them to submit their offers directly, without going through Valpak or other coupon distributors with whom the company is holding partnership talks.
Users will not be able to search specifically for Valpak offers; instead they will be automatically displayed for appropriate Google Maps searches such as
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