At AvantLink, we understand the strategic importance of coupon codes and the potential negative impact unauthorized use can have on your brand’s budget and profit margins. To support your affiliate program’s success, we’ve provided several methods to help ensure your partners are aware of—and adhere to—any restrictions related to coupon code usage.
- AvantLink Terms of Use: Written in AvantLink’s general terms, we have specifically outlined that “the use of invalid or unauthorized merchant coupons, deals, sweepstakes or promotions is prohibited. If the coupon, deal, or promotion is not listed within the merchants configured ad campaigns, express permission from the merchant is required before use.”
- Customized Terms & Conditions: As a brand, you have the option to add in any specific terms to your program to ensure that affiliate partners are appropriately aligned with your affiliate strategy. An example of specific terms can be: “Affiliates may not advertise coupon codes obtained from non-affiliate marketing channels, including from our website or email newsletter. Any promotions outside of those available on our affiliate program ad campaign list through AvantLink will be considered unauthorized. Permission to use coupon codes outside of what we offer through our program must be supplied in writing.”
- Restricted Coupon Code Feature: You also have the option to apply a Restricted Coupon Code (RCC) rule to any coupon codes that should not be promoted in the affiliate channel. When an RCC is used on an order both affiliate and network commissions will not be rewarded (e.g. no commissions will be paid out). For transparency, affiliate partners will see that they helped drive the sale. They will just not receive commission.
Ensuring that affiliates are compliant with these measures is key. Keep in mind, any sale made using a restricted coupon code can be easily reversed. If you notice ongoing issues with the promotion of your coupon codes, or want to set up restrictive coupon code tracking, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at am@avantlink.com—we’re here to help!