Coupons meant for general distribution should always carry a barcode (those starting
"99…." denote a coupon barcode). This is often referred to as the "retailer barcode"
and this enables the coupon to be scanned at the point of purchase by the checkout
operator. It is equally important to enable your handling house to process your
coupons promptly and accurately.
Adding a second barcode allows specific communication between consumer & promoter.
This is made possible by the use of a PIN (personal identification number) also
known as a URN (unique reference number) which is simply printed onto the coupon
in barcode form (a human readable numeric code is translated into a barcode font).
Commonly used formats for URN/PIN barcodes are Code 39 or Interleaf 2of5. In this
way, tracking is made possible by the use of a numbering system containing for example,
information about an individual, the number of vouchers that individual has redeemed,
the type of mailpiece that was received, or the source of the recipients details.
MRM can scan this barcode and provide valuable information in the form of data or
hard copy analysis reports.