AI (8112)
AI (8112) coupons are universal, single-use coupons validated in real-time through TCB’s Universal Positive Offer file.
.png)
The New Application Type
In 2016, the Joint Industry Coupon Council (JICC) partnered with the Association of Coupon Professionals (ACP) to create a task force. This task force was dedicated to identifying a solution to address shortcomings with current processes in the U.S. coupon market. The shortcomings included the inability to produce a retailer agnostic mobile coupon, ever-increasing instances of fraud, and limitations in product validation. It was decided that a new offer type was required to move the couponing industry forward. In order to differentiate these new offers from what was already in market, a new GS1 application Identifier was created, AI (8112).
AI (8112)
AI (8112) coupons are universal, single-use coupons validated in real-time through TCB’s Universal Positive Offer file. Although the initial version of the industry solution will be delivered via mobile, the AI (8112) coupon process and type is viable in any medium.
Standardized
Simplified
The platform to create and manage offers through the positive offer file is a new GS1-US coupon standard and coupon type, AI (8112). Guided by JICC/ACP, The Coupon Bureau is responsible for creating, maintaining and rolling out the coupon format AI (8112) to all stakeholders in 2020, including grocery retailers, convenience store retailers, coupon provider/distributors, CPGs, and clearinghouses. A single set of standards, found in the Coupon Data and Specifications document, will be used to create and execute all coupon programs, creating more secure, and more efficient data exchange between parties.
Ecommerce Enabled (New Feature)
Due to the acceleration of touchless and e-commerce adoption during the Covid-19 pandemic, TCB fast-tracked it’s e-commerce feature set and integration capabilities. All coupons are now compatible with e-commerce transactions via a shortcode that can be utilized by the consumer during checkout.
Dataflow Map
The Coupon Bureau provides a network of connectivity between all stakeholders in the coupon ecosystem. This is critical to enable a single positive offer file to eliminate fraud and to enable the transactional tracking of mobile coupons.
Required Datastring Elements
.png)
Application Identifier (AI)
GS1 identification number that identifies this as a Positive Offer File coupon.
Coupon Funder ID VLI
Defines the length of the following element.
Offer Code
Assigned by the coupon issuer to identify a specific offer
Coupon Format
Identification of the coupon format as either digital or paper.
Coupon Funder ID
Identification of the manufacturer or organization responsible for funding the offer. This is for billing purposes only and not for validation
Serial Number VLI
Defines the length of the following element. An offset of 6 is added to the VLI to get the actual length. Valid VLIs are 0-9.
Serial Number
Serial Number provides an individual, unique instance of a Coupon Funder ID and Offer Code combination
Centralized
Neutral Universal Positive Offer File connecting the retail landscape creates a platform for innovation grounded in interoperable standards
Cloud Based
GTIN validation allows manufacturers to ensure the coupon is redeemed for the intended purchase requirements. More accurate than the current family code process, manufacturers will see more effective campaign results.
Secure
Secure realtime validation from the retailer POS to the Universal Positive Offer file ensures the only valid coupons are accepted.
Single Use
Universal Single Use Coupons are serialized at the time of distribution, which allows manufacturers and providers to ensure that each coupon is only used once.
Realtime Authentication
Transaction data related to coupon issuance and redemption are available to authorized stakeholders in realtime. Manufacturers can see where and when their coupons were redeemed, allowing for more efficient and effective campaign management.
GTIN Validation
GTIN validation allows manufacturers to ensure the coupon is redeemed for the intended purchase requirements. More accurate than the current family code process, manufacturers will see more effective campaign results