Group buying sites Cudo and Spreets have teamed up, releasing the framework for a voluntary Code of Conduct for the Australian group buying industry.

Central to the Code is a draft list of ethical and best-practice commitments to merchants and members that participating sites should adhere to. Cudo and Spreets are inviting the industry to contribute to the content of this Code, with the aim being for a final Code to be agreed in the coming months.

Cudo CEO said the both Cudo and Spreets recognised the importance of ensuring the group buying experiencing is sounding for merchants and members.

“As the category grows, our introduction of this voluntary Code of conduct provides a framework from which to implement some of the fundamentals of good group buying and promote best practice,” he said.

“We’re welcoming our industry counterparts to join us in developing and adopting this voluntary Code of Conduct.”

Industry bodies and associations have also been quick to show support for the introduction of a code of conduct, with the Australian Direct Marketing Association (ADMA), Australian Interactive Media
Industry Association (AIMIA), Hair & Beauty Industry Association and industry analyst, Telsyte also endorsing the proposed initiative:

Sam Yip, Telsyte senior research manager, said is fully supporting the code of conduct for the Australian group buying industry.

“This is a positive first step to create a sustainable and valuable industry for the benefit of consumers and merchants,” he said.