What ideas do you have for Ibotta to expand its in-app shopping experience beyond grocery and retail stores?

Introduction

To expand Ibotta's in-app shopping experience beyond grocery and retail stores, we need to consider new verticals, user behaviors, and market opportunities. I'll outline a strategic approach to identify and prioritize potential expansion areas, keeping in mind Ibotta's core value proposition of savings and cashback.

Clarifying Questions

• Looking at Ibotta's current focus, I'm thinking about the app's primary user base. Could you share more about the demographics and usage patterns of our most engaged users?

Why it matters: Understanding our core users helps identify adjacent markets that align with their needs and behaviors. Expected answer: Primarily millennials and Gen X, with a focus on budget-conscious shoppers. Impact on approach: Would target expansion areas that resonate with these demographics and their spending habits.

• Considering Ibotta's cashback model, I'm curious about our current partnerships. What types of merchants or brands have shown the most success or growth potential within our ecosystem?

Why it matters: Identifies sectors where Ibotta has strong relationships and could leverage for expansion. Expected answer: Strong partnerships with CPG brands and major retailers. Impact on approach: Would explore expansion opportunities that build on these existing relationships.

• Given the evolving e-commerce landscape, I'm wondering about our users' cross-platform behaviors. How do our users typically discover and interact with Ibotta across different devices or channels?

Why it matters: Helps determine if we should focus on mobile-first experiences or explore omnichannel opportunities. Expected answer: Primarily mobile app usage with some web traffic for research. Impact on approach: Would prioritize mobile-centric solutions while considering cross-platform integration.

• Thinking about Ibotta's position in the market, what are our key differentiators compared to other cashback or rewards platforms?

Why it matters: Identifies unique strengths we can leverage in new verticals. Expected answer: Real-time cashback, ease of use, and strong brand partnerships. Impact on approach: Would focus on expansion areas where these differentiators provide a competitive advantage.