The much talked about Facebook deals is the sequel to Facebook launching Places. It is still only available to a limited amount of businesses and you must claim your business before using Deals. But as always with Beta launches, it will be mainstream once they work the kinks out. For me, the best part of Facebook Deals is the Loyalty Check-In's. I am tired of having 7 cards on my keychain and 5 more in my wallet. I have one for every conceivable merchant - the 5 different car washes I visit, pharmacies, grocery stores, sporting good stores, book stores (which I never visit anymore because of my iPad) Starbucks etc.
The simple fact that merchants can streamline that process of loyalty for me through Facebook is compelling. I would much rather check-in and have it automated through my most-visited personal website. For brands, the service is still basic, but the ability to segment and target offers to various regions, types of customers and be more adaptive to a very fluid and fickle marketplace.
