Facebook proved itself to be one tough cookie and the site is thriving despite all the hype about the competition (read "Google+"). But
that does not mean that everything is well with Facebook. The social networking site recently decided to pull a plug on its fledgling 'Facebook Deals' program. The venture lasted only 4 months. However, this apparently bad news is certainly a good one for also-struggling crowd-sourcing deal sites like Groupon and other clones.
As a pilot program, Facebook deals were initially launched in five cities, but according to the sources, the response had been underwhelming. Group buying has essentially been considered a 'low-barrier' entry segment. However, Facebook's debacle shows that it may not be that easy, after all. If a company with 750 Million+ database cannot make it happen, then other too would do well thinking twice before venturing into this segment.
Facebook also announced that it would not be supporting its 'Places' app as a standalone app. Just as Deals failed to kill Groupon, Places couldn't quite become next Foursquare. However, Facebook might be planning to integrate it with other features.
Facebook had launched its Check-in Deals in the UK some time back and you do not need to worry. That program is still up and running. Check-in deals program lets you check-in (very obviously) into various places and then you can get bombarded with discount and other offers available at that place. This program is still alive and kicking.