10 years ago most people would not have understood the concept of voucher redemption codes that can be used to buy things online or in shops.  Now even printed vouchers are being used less and less with the increase of Smartphones enabling consumers to use electronic voucher codes to claim their discounts. This development in technology, coinciding with the flagging economy and an increase in VAT has led to a significant increase in the discount voucher culture.

The discount voucher market has become a multi-million pound market with the likes of discountvouchercodes.co.uk, Groupon and myvouchercodes.co.uk all fighting for market share. Back in January this year, search engine Twenga reported that the number of searches for the codes, which can offer large discounts on high street stores, rose 180 per cent in December 2010. Groupon deals appear to have gained the most press in recent times, mainly because they offer such significant savings.

So what does all this mean? There are 3 groups benefiting from this new found industry – the retailers, who are struggling for sales in tough times, the discount voucher websites who are experiencing phenomenal growth, and most importantly of all the consumers who are getting much more choice and great savings, not to mention some great ideas for days and nights out. While it's clear it's becoming a crowded marketplace, it seems to be working well for everyone.

The consumer has long been taken for a ride with sales and discounts widely accepted to be seasonal affairs with January sales, spring sales and summer sales. In the age of the internet the world is changing faster than the weather. ensuring there are daily deals to be had. The mindset has changed forever and there's no way back so long may it last.

It's surprising how often people struggle for inspiration in life. One thing that's changed with the arrival of discount voucher sites is that more people are being driven to do things by the offer of a cheap deal. Watch someone type in Groupon deals in Edinburgh and watch their eyes light up when they see 70% off a wide selection of activities! From beauty treatments to paintball and go-karting, there are plenty of offers to suit all interests. Even if you are looking at planning a trip abroad to Ireland for example check out Groupon Ireland and you will find a wide selection of offers to bring down the cost of your trip. Likewise, you can also check out deals in any of the other major cities around the UK.

One word of warning is that you must check the terms and conditions, the classic small print. As has been brought to light on the TV programme Watchdog, some of the voucher websites have received some bad press for not being transparent enough with their offers. If something seems like its too good to be true, it usually is! If you work within the terms and are flexible in your buying then you will certainly enjoy significant savings and have memorable times. So what are you waiting for!? Boom times have long gone and discount season is here to stay for the foreseeable!