Square bets recommendations based on payment data beat Foursquare check-ins anytime
Skift Take
Amazon pioneered e-commerce recommendations like this years ago. That being said, it is logical that Square would leverage its payment data, which show a lot more intent about future purchases than Foursquare's check-ins do.
Square is using its trove of payment data to build an engine for making local recommendations, a move that could upend the conventional wisdom about luring customers through their mobile devices.
The recommendation engine, which is already at work in the commerce startup’s merchant directory, will someday suggest places to visit based on a customer’s previous purchase history.
If the feature proves successful, it could cause companies like Facebook, Foursquare, and Yelp to rethink the value of check-ins as the currency that powers local recommendations.
Up Next
Business Travel
The State of Corporate Travel and Expense 2025
A new report explores how for travel and finance managers are targeting enhanced ROI, new opportunities, greater efficiencies, time and money savings, and better experiences for employees with innovative travel and expense management solutions.
Sponsored 
Podcasts
Hyatt’s Resort Target, Despegar’s Acquisition and Hotels vs. OTAs
In major hospitality news, Hyatt is in talks to acquire Playa Hotels & Resorts, Despegar has agreed to a $1.7 billion buyout by Prosus, and a Skift Research report suggests hotel websites could surpass OTAs by 2030 – or maybe not.
Airlines
Ryanair, EasyJet, and Wizz Air: Which Carrier is Ending 2024 on Top?
It's tempting to group Europe's low-cost airlines together, but 2024 highlighted major differences in performance, problems, and profitability.
Tourism
Goa Strengthens Bid to Attract Digital Nomads — India Report
Goa’s tourism game is all about inclusivity. From digital nomads chasing WiFi to leisure travelers seeking sandy retreats, the state’s strategy has something for everyone.
Hotels
Hotel Versus OTA Direct-Booking Tussle Will Shape Distribution for Years to Come
Will hotel websites become the dominant distribution channel for hotels by 2030, leaving online travel agencies behind? It could certainly happen. However, there are reasons that scenario might not take place. Let's discuss this again in five years.