Glimcher, eProximiti launch mobile marketing platform

Columbus, Ohio Glimcher Realty Trust said Thursday it has partnered with technology company eProximiti to launch a new mobile marketing and free wireless Internet platform nationwide. The new platform allows mall shoppers to surf the Web while they shop, gaining access to free Internet service and to local merchant promotions.

“eProximiti reaches shoppers with local and relevant shopping information, which is important during a time when consumers are being more thoughtful than ever in their shopping habits,” said Armand Mastropietro, senior VP, property management, Glimcher Realty Trust. “Throughout our portfolio, we’re focused on providing a unique shopping experience. Partnering with eProximiti gives us a tool that connects local merchants with local shoppers in a new and distinctive way.”

eProximiti brings special retailer-driven offers immediately to the consumer through e-mails and text messages via a Web-based, interactive product.

At Polaris Fashion Place in Columbus, Ohio, participating merchants are featured in ads of varying sizes on polarisfashionplacefeatures.com. Shoppers carrying smart phones, 3G-enabled phones or laptops, which enter the WiFi hotspot in the Food Hall, are directed to a landing page that features local merchant advertising and unique promotions, events and special features. Consumers can then click on the advertisement to download a coupon, send it to their phone or make a reservation.

Currently, eProximiti is available at Polaris Fashion Place, with plans to roll out in 19 Glimcher properties nationwide prior to the 2009 holiday shopping season.