You don't have to look very hard to notice that 30A has a strong presence in Memphis. Whether you're on the interstate or a backroad, you're likely to spot the circular blue logo on bumper stickers across the Mid-South (so much so, that our own marketing manager Googled “30A” to see what the hype was about). If you're not already familiar with the Highway 30A community, take a look at the “Your Perfect Beach” story from our March issue.
If you are familiar with the area (evidence of bumper stickers shows you might be), you'll be delighted to hear that they've launched a new “must have” membership program card to help both locals and tourists save on activities in the area.
The official 30A card, the brain-child of Memphians Greg Alsobrook and Bryan Burnett of Cool Coastal, LLC., became available on March 15th and is already creating a buzz. “The first order was for 1,000, and they're already gone,” says Alsobrook.
Alsobrook, a former Memphian and owner of rockfire media, moved to 30A to extend his web design and videography services. A short time later, he and close friend Burnett, a current Memphian and executive director of marketing for O.R. Nurses – a Source One Company, got together and brainstormed on how to boost awareness of the incredible shops and restaurants along 30A.
They came up with the idea for a card that would provide deals and discounts to customers while also benefitting the local 30A businesses. They pitched the idea to 30A.com owner and founder, Mike Ragsdale, and the concept was set into motion. Since Ragsdale didn't have sufficient time to devote to project, he left it in the capable hands of Alsobrook and Burnett. One year and the creation of Cool Coastal, LLC. later, the official discount card is kicking off busy season with a bang.
“Once you pay the fee, and use the card once, it's paid for. After that, you're saving money the rest of the time,” says Burnett.
It's quite simple, really. Purchase the card (at 30A.com or at the roughly 25 retailers in South Walton) for the one-time fee of $24.95, and enjoy the deals and discounts of over 100 businesses along 30A. The card is good for one calendar year, through December 31, 2013, and has unlimited use once purchased. Local businesses in South Walton participating in the program have the right to change their deals as needed, but are committed for a full year to offer a discount.
Participating businesses include Amavida coffee, Camp Creek Golf Club, Eye Candi Photography, Grayton Beach Fitness, Louis Louis restaurant, Ophelia swimwear, Red Bar, Rum Runners restaurant, The WaterColor Store, Vue on 30A, YOLO Board + Beach, and many more.
“The 30A Card is a creative incentive for visitors to try different restaurants, shops and businesses,” says Ragsdale.
In addition, the 30A iPhone app will soon have a “Deals” tab to aid in the use of the discount card. Simply download the app, click on the “Deals” tab, and the app will conveniently find the deals available closest to your location.
“We wanted this to be beneficial to the businesses as much as it was to us [and the customers],” says Burnett. And with deals like 10% off a piece at Andy Saczynski's art gallery, the 30A Artist of the Year, the card more than pays for itself after one use.
“Now you can eat, shop, and play at your favorite 30A hot spots, all at a discount,” says Alsobrook.
30A Artist of the Year, Andy Saczynski, in his art gallery.
