LAUNCH OF THE API PROGRAM: BUY MORE.HERE. IN LAVAL

The City unveils an innovative initiative to support local purchasing

The City of Laval, in collaboration with theQuebec Center for Business Innovation (CQIC), is proud to launch theapiprogram: Let’s Buy More. Here.This is a sustainable economic initiative that benefits everyone, powered by Freebees. In practice,api increasesresidents’ purchasing power and supports local businesses. It allows businesses to create their own electronic currency to reward and retain customers while boosting Laval’s economy! 

This initiative, rolled out across the entire city of Laval, will benefit businesses of all sizes thanks to its inclusive approach and accessibility. api supports local shopping at Laval boutiques and stores; it is a long-term solution built on a proven platform. The goal of this initial launch phase is to gain the support of Laval merchants, with the aim of then increasing participation among Laval consumers starting in the fall of 2020.

The program, in practical terms

TheAPIprogram allows merchants to transform their customers’ shopping experience by letting them use virtual currency. This way, merchants generate more revenue than they would with a typical in-store discount, and their customers always have a new balance to spend, which encourages them to return and take advantage of it. Upon joining the program, businesses receive support and gain access to a communications and promotions management module. Note that merchants can take advantage of a preferential rate by signing up for the program before September¹, 2020. To learn more about the program and eligible businesses, visit achetonsplusici.com.

Laval, a city of innovation

It is also important to highlight the boldness shown by the City of Laval in launching theapi project: “We are pleased to be the first to implement this economic initiative, which is a real breath of fresh air after the past few months.” The retail sector plays a major role in Laval; we’re talking about nearly one in four jobs here. It is through concrete and sustainable actions that businesses will be able to bounce back, and the City of Laval is proud to pitch in,” says Marc Demers, Mayor of Laval.

The result of hard work

The CQIC has been working on implementing this initiative for several months now: “After nearly a year of preparation, this major project is finally coming to fruition. In our view,apiis the program that should be implemented in all municipalities across Quebec to boost the economy. Thanks to the Freebees platform, we know the initiative will bear fruit and that it is indeed a long-term solution for businesses,” says Carl Boutet, Executive Director of the CQIC.

A proven platform

The Freebees platform, a Quebec-based technology that has been in development for over six years, is a concrete step toward supporting the local economy.

Partners

Theapiinitiativeisalso supported by key business partners essential to its successful implementation in the Laval area: Tourisme Laval, Saveurs de Laval, and the Laval Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Tourisme Laval this economic initiative. In fact, the api program will be launched first in Laval before being expanded across Quebec. We are pleased to have active members within our association who will serve as ambassadors for the program in the region,” said Geneviève Roy, President and CEO of Tourisme Laval. “Our members have long wanted to see such a loyalty program implemented to encourage local spending. At this critical time for our industry, we are confident that this project will boost foot traffic at our tourist attractions.”

“In light of the new challenges facing the retail sector, we must support and stand by Laval’s retailers. We must also innovate and think outside the box. The initiative announced today is another step in that direction. It is an additional tool to drive a sustainable recovery for businesses in Laval and to connect them with customers in a new way,” said Caroline De Guire, President and CEO of the Laval Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

Mission of the Quebec Center for Business Innovation (CQIC)

Promote and optimize innovation projects by enhancing collaboration among stakeholders in the retail and technology ecosystem to boost the vitality of local businesses.