Groupon buys two mobile firms

Picks up geolocation tech maker Hyperpublic and barcode specialist Kima Labs.

The acquisitions are further proof, if any were needed, that Groupon sees the mobile channel as critical to its future success.

New York-based start-up Hyperpublic has assembled an open database of people, places and things tied to a specific location.

Kima Labs developed the barcode-reading app Barcode Hero and mobile payment service TapBuy. Apparently, the app has now been withdrawn and TapBuy – which sounds like a mini Groupon, offering deals on over 100 brands – will also be wound down.

Groupon told TechCrunch:  ”Kima Labs has developed popular apps that make mobile transactions easier, more fun and more of a possibility for merchants. We’re excited by the team’s ability to create technology that consumers love, and we believe they’ll be strong assets in our pursuit to change the way people shop.”

Few would be surprised at these moves. Groupon has become one of the fastest growing firms of all time thanks largely to email, but the benefits of a location-aware mobile channel to its business of utterly self-evident.