There's been a lot of grumbling lately about Groupon and its clones because, frankly, how many goshdamn half-price Brazilian waxes and 60%-off yoga classes does the world need? The "daily deals" market feels totally oversaturated; increasingly, marks -- er, customers! I meant customers! -- feel overwhelmed by underwhelming offers.
Which brings me to an offer that Groupon sent out this morning to its email newsletter subscribers in Chicago, its hometown: $20 nosebleed seats for this Wednesday's NKOTBSB concert. Did you just say "Huh?" Well, here's more from Groupon's punchy sales pitch:
The head's most mild-mannered residents, ears are forced to live in constant fear of being pierced, boxed or rubbed by hockey players for good luck. Give your sonic conduits a well-earned gift with today's Groupon: for $20, you get one ticket to see The NKOTBSB Tour featuring New Kids on the Block and the Backstreet Boys, with special guest Jordin Sparks, at Allstate Arena in Rosemont on Wednesday, May 25, at 7:30 p.m. (a $29.50 value before fees, up to a $39.40 value online, including Ticketmaster fees). Doors open at 6:30.... All seating is in sections 201 and 211 of the Allstate Arena. The spaciousness of the venue ensures ample supplies of oxygen to fuel the full-throated cheers all performers rely upon for sustenance.
Wait, you're now maybe thinking to yourself, The headline says "Top 10 Signs the Groupon / Daily Deals Racket Has Jumped the Shark," but I only see nine guys in that photo of NKOTBSB. You are very perceptive! OK, here's the 10th sign: Glenn Beck Launches a Groupon Knockoff.
Simon Dumenco is the "Media Guy" media columnist for Advertising Age. Follow him on Twitter @simondumenco.
