Melbourne-based digital marketing agency, From Little Things, has launched Mates Rates, an online membership platform to connect consumers with Australian-owned brands.
Since 2017, From Little Things has worked with more than 100 local businesses, sparking its concept for Mates Rates, a platform designed to offer its members an opportunity to discover and support local creators, business builders and self-starters, with a discount.
Food and beverage brands currently signed on to participate include Bobby, Blak Brews, Chow Cacao, Minimum Wines, Non, Proud Mary Coffee, Streat, Sourdough Starter, and StrangeLove.
For a Mates Rates subscription of $5 a month, members get a personal code that unlocks a 10 per cent discount at the online stores of more than 100 local brands.
From Little Things say 100 per cent of profits from memberships are reinvested into further support for Australian small businesses.
Mates Rates founder and From Little Things director Tyler Mathes said the mission was to amplify the voices of local makers.
“As a small business owner, I know first-hand how difficult it is to cut through the noise of big businesses and get your product into the hands of consumers who want to support authentic brands. We want Mates Rates to be the link that connects impactful, meaningful brands to conscious consumers.
“We also know the position the average shopper right now. Spending power is low, but consumers want to support good business and good people, and are looking to buy fewer, better things from people who deserve their dollar,” said Mathes.
Mates Rates ambassadors include journalist and Future Women MD Jamila Rizvi, co-founder and CEO of Clothing the Gaps Laura Thompson, co-founder of HoMie Nick Pearce, and founder of Pandaemonium, Alice Armitage.
In addition to a 10 per cent discount, members receive access to further brand discounts and exclusive offers each month.
The Mates Rates platform and associated promotion is also provided at no charge to the brands participating.
“It’s not just about the transaction; it's about the people and the stories behind the brands. Mates Rates supports all local small businesses and wants to project those that are Aboriginal-led, regionally based, social impact focused and female-led, with the site spotlighting businesses in these categories,” said Mathes.
