Cox Media launching discount program

Cox Media Group says it has launched DealSwarm, a group buying discount program that will offer online discounts of 50 percent or more on dining, entertainment and other services.

In addition to Dayton, CMG is introducing the program in Atlanta, Austin and Seattle.

Customers can register at www.dealswarm.com to receive daily e-mail alerts about discount offers in their area, CMG executives said.

Daily deals will be ready and available for purchase in the next few weeks, executives said.

“Different from others in the group buying space, our local media properties in each DealSwarm market bring unprecedented marketing power with established readers, viewers and listeners,” said David Shipps, DealSwarm’s vice president. “For our business partners, there are no upfront costs. They simply benefit from new customers and a fantastic promotional opportunity for their business.” Shipps added that CMG’s radio, TV and newspaper websites as well as Facebook applications and Twitter accounts in each market will be used to promote the program.

It also will be promoted through e-newsletters on the day deals are available.

DealSwarm will be rolled out in other markets in 2011.