program

Abstract

To provide a program, a transaction management apparatus, and a commercial transaction method that allow for flexible use of a coupon.SOLUTION: A program can be executed by a consumer terminal of a first consumer including a user interface, a display, a communication interface, and a storage apparatus. The program causes the consumer terminal to function as: first processing means which displays, on a display, information indicating a main coupon issued in association with the first consumer; second processing means which executes at least a part of a payment procedure for purchasing a commodity or receiving a service, using the main coupon; request means which transmits a request to a transaction management apparatus to change at least a part of the main coupon to a sub coupon which can be used by a second consumer different from the first consumer; and output means which outputs sub coupon identification information identifying the sub coupon.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a program, a transaction management device, and a commercial transaction method. [Background technology]

[0002] There are efforts to promote consumption in specific regions. For example, the issuance of regional promotion coupons, also known as premium coupons, is one such effort.

[0003] As a related technique, Patent Document 1 discloses a regional promotion coupon management system. The regional promotion coupon management system described in Patent Document 1 has a storage device and a calculation device. The storage device stores a list that specifies the attributes of each party associated with a specified region. When the calculation device receives a request for issuing a regional promotion coupon from a specified device, it identifies the attributes of the applicant indicated in the issuance request in the list. The calculation device determines the premium amount of the regional promotion coupon to be issued to the applicant in accordance with the type of the identified attribute. The calculation device also executes a specified issuance process for the regional promotion coupon at a face value that is the determined premium amount added to the purchase amount desired by the applicant.

[0004] The regional promotion coupon management system described in Patent Document 1 lacks flexibility in the use of regional promotion coupons. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0005] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2018-18216 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0006] An object of the present invention is to provide a program, a transaction management device, and a commercial transaction method that allow flexible use of coupons. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The following describes the means for solving the problems using the numbers and symbols used in the description of the invention. These numbers and symbols are added in parentheses for reference purposes to show an example of the correspondence between the claims and the description of the invention. Therefore, the claims should not be interpreted as being limited by the parenthetical descriptions.

[0008] In some embodiments, the program is executable by a consumer terminal (2) of a consumer having a user interface (21), a display (23), a communication interface (24), and a storage device (25). The program causes the consumer terminal (2) to function as a first processing means (271) that causes the display (23) to display information (E1;J-1) indicating a main coupon (M) associated with the consumer and issued to the consumer, a second processing means (272) that uses the main coupon (M) to execute at least a part of the payment procedure for purchasing a product or receiving a service, a request means (273) that sends a request to the transaction management device (6) to change at least a part of the main coupon (M) to a secondary coupon (N) that can be used by another consumer other than the consumer, and an output means (274) that outputs secondary coupon identification information (K-1) that identifies the secondary coupon (N).

[0009] The second processing means (272) may be configured to transmit store identification information (S-1) identifying the store that provides the product or service, amount information (P-1) indicating the amount to be used for the main coupon, and main coupon identification information (J-1) identifying the main coupon to the transaction management device (6) via the communication interface (24).

[0010] The second processing means (272) may be configured to display main coupon identification information (J-1) that identifies the main coupon on the display (23) in a format that can be read by the store terminal.

[0011] The program may be a program for causing the consumer terminal (2) to function as a usage notification receiving means (280) for receiving a usage notification indicating that the secondary coupon (N) has been used from the transaction management device via the communication interface (24).

[0012] The program may be a program for causing the consumer terminal (2) to function as a recovery request means (275) that requests the transaction management device (6) to recover the unused amount of the secondary coupon (N).

[0013] The withdrawal request means (275) may be configured to request the transaction management device (6) to increase the balance of the main coupon (M), which was the basis for issuing the secondary coupon (N), by an amount corresponding to the unused amount of the secondary coupon (N).

[0014] The withdrawal request means (275) may be configured to request the transaction management device (6) to automatically withdraw the unused amount when the expiration date of the secondary coupon (N) has passed.

[0015] The output means (274) may be configured to transmit the secondary coupon identification information (K-1) to a second consumer terminal (41), which is the terminal of the other consumer, via the communication interface (24), or to display the secondary coupon identification information (K-1) on the display (23) in a format readable by the second consumer terminal (41).

[0016] The output means (274) may be configured to send a print command to the printer (46) to print the secondary coupon identification information (K-1).

[0017] Each of the main coupon and the sub-coupon may be a local promotion coupon that can be used only in a predetermined area.

[0018] In some embodiments, the transaction management device includes a memory device (65) that stores main coupon identification information (J-1) that identifies a main coupon, a main coupon balance that indicates the remaining balance of the main coupon, secondary coupon identification information (K-1) that identifies a secondary coupon, and a secondary coupon balance that indicates the remaining balance of the secondary coupon, and a processing device (63). The processing device (63) is configured to execute a process of reducing the balance of the main coupon stored in the memory device (65) by the amount indicated by the amount information (P-1) in response to receiving, from a consumer terminal (2) or a store terminal (5a), transaction information including store identification information (S-1) that identifies a store providing a product or service, amount information (P-1) that indicates the amount of the main coupon to be used, and the main coupon identification information (J-1) that identifies the main coupon. The processing device (63) is configured to execute the following processes in response to receiving from the consumer terminal (2) secondary coupon issuance request information including the main coupon identification information (J-1) that identifies the main coupon that is the basis for issuing the secondary coupon and change amount information (Q) that indicates the amount to be changed to the secondary coupon: reducing the balance of the main coupon stored in the memory device (65) by the amount indicated by the change amount information (Q); issuing the secondary coupon (N) having a balance corresponding to the amount indicated by the change amount information (Q); and sending to the consumer terminal (2) a notification of completion of the secondary coupon issuance process and the secondary coupon identification information (K-1) that identifies the issued secondary coupon.

[0019] In some embodiments, the commercial transaction method includes a main coupon purchase processing step, a main coupon use processing step, a secondary coupon acquisition processing step, and a secondary coupon use processing step. The main coupon purchase processing step includes storing, in a memory device (65) of a transaction management device (6), identification information for identifying a consumer, main coupon identification information (J-1) for identifying a main coupon purchased by the consumer, and the balance of the main coupon, and transmitting a notification of completion of the main coupon purchase and the main coupon identification information (J-1) from the transaction management device (6) to the consumer terminal (2) of the consumer. The main coupon use processing step includes deducting the balance of the main coupon stored in the memory device (65) by the amount of the main coupon used. The secondary coupon acquisition processing step includes the transaction management device (6) receiving, from the consumer terminal (2), secondary coupon issuance request information including the main coupon identification information (J-1) identifying the main coupon and change amount information (Q) indicating the amount to be changed to the secondary coupon, deducting the balance of the main coupon stored in the memory device (65) by the amount indicated by the change amount information (Q), issuing the secondary coupon (N) having a balance corresponding to the amount indicated by the change amount information (Q), storing in the memory device (65) the main coupon identification information (J-1) identifying the main coupon that was the basis for issuance of the secondary coupon, the secondary coupon identification information (K-1) identifying the secondary coupon, and the balance of the secondary coupon in association with each other, and transmitting from the transaction management device (6) to the consumer terminal (2) a notification of completion of the secondary coupon issuance process and the secondary coupon identification information (K-1) identifying the issued secondary coupon. The secondary coupon use processing step includes a step of reducing the balance of the secondary coupon stored in the storage device (65) by the amount of the secondary coupon used. [Effects of the Invention]

[0020] The present invention can provide a program, a transaction management device, and a commercial transaction method that allow flexible use of coupons. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0021] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of a commercial transaction support system according to the first embodiment. [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of the consumer terminal. [Figure 3] FIG. 3 is a table that schematically illustrates an example of information stored in the storage device of the transaction management device. [Figure 4] FIG. 4 is a table that schematically shows an example of information stored in the storage device of the transaction management device. [Figure 5] FIG. 5 is a table that schematically shows an example of information stored in the storage device of the transaction management device. [Figure 6] FIG. 6 is a table that schematically shows an example of information stored in the storage device of the transaction management device. [Figure 7] FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a typical display of a notification of completion of the coupon purchase process on the display of the consumer terminal. [Figure 8] FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a schematic diagram of transaction information being transmitted from a consumer terminal to a transaction management device. [Figure 9] FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a schematic diagram of transaction information being transmitted from a store terminal to a transaction management device. [Figure 10] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a schematic view of the notification of completion of the secondary coupon issuing process displayed on the display of the consumer terminal. [Figure 11] FIG. 11 is a diagram schematically showing how secondary coupon identification information that identifies a secondary coupon is transmitted from a consumer terminal to a second consumer terminal. [Figure 12] FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a state in which second transaction information is transmitted from the store terminal to the transaction management device. [Figure 13] FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a schematic diagram of a state in which a print command is sent from the consumer terminal to the printer to print secondary coupon identification information that identifies the secondary coupon. [Figure 14]FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a state in which second transaction information is transmitted from the store terminal to the transaction management device. [Figure 15] FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of a commercial transaction method according to the first embodiment. [Figure 16] FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a typical state in which the member registration process is being executed. [Figure 17] FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a typical state during execution of the login process. [Figure 18] FIG. 18 is a diagram showing a schematic diagram of the main coupon selection process being executed. [Figure 19] FIG. 19 is a diagram schematically showing how the questionnaire is displayed on the display of the consumer terminal. [Figure 20] FIG. 20 is a diagram schematically illustrating how an input regarding the payment method for the purchase price of the main coupon is being received from the first consumer. [Figure 21] FIG. 21 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a main coupon usage process. [Figure 22] FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a schematic view of how store identification information for identifying a store is read using a camera of a consumer terminal. [Figure 23] FIG. 23 is a diagram showing a schematic view of the amount information input processing step being executed. [Figure 24] Figure 24 is a diagram showing a schematic diagram of store identification information that identifies the store, amount information that indicates the amount to be used for the main coupon, and information about the main coupon to be used displayed on the display of a consumer terminal. [Figure 25] FIG. 25 is a diagram schematically showing information indicating that the transaction has been completed being displayed on the display of the consumer terminal. [Figure 26] FIG. 26 is a sequence diagram showing another example of the main coupon use processing steps. [Figure 27] FIG. 27 is a diagram showing a typical display of main coupon identification information that identifies the main coupon used for payment on the display of a consumer terminal. [Figure 28] FIG. 28 is a diagram showing a typical payment method selection screen displayed on the display of the consumer terminal, which allows the user to select either the user scan method or the store scan method. [Figure 29] FIG. 29 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a sub-coupon acquisition process. [Figure 30] FIG. 30 is a diagram showing a process of inputting the amount of the main coupon to be changed to the sub-coupon. [Figure 31] FIG. 31 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a secondary coupon use processing step. [Figure 32] FIG. 32 is a sequence diagram showing an example of a secondary coupon unused amount recovery process. [Figure 33] FIG. 33 is a diagram showing a schematic view of the procedure for suspending the use of a secondary coupon. [Figure 34] FIG. 34 is a diagram showing a typical display of information indicating that the use of the secondary coupon has been suspended on the display of the consumer terminal. [Figure 35] FIG. 35 is a sequence diagram showing another example of the secondary coupon unused amount recovery processing step. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0022] The program 91, the commercial transaction support system 1, the transaction management device 6, and the commercial transaction method according to the embodiment will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the following description, components and parts having the same functions are designated by the same reference numerals, and repeated description of components and parts designated by the same reference numerals will be omitted.

[0023] (Definition of terms) In this specification, the term "coupon" refers to something that can be used instead of money to pay for goods, services, etc.

[0024] In this specification, "member" means a person who uses a coupon and is registered as a member in the transaction management device 6. A member can also be said to be a member consumer. A member is assigned a member ID to distinguish them from other members.

[0025] In this specification, "non-member" means a person who uses a coupon but is not registered as a member in the transaction management device 6. A non-member can also be said to be a non-member consumer.

[0026] (First embodiment) With reference to FIGS. 1 to 35, the program 91, commercial transaction support system 1, transaction management device 6, and commercial transaction method according to the first embodiment will be described. FIG. 1 is a diagram schematically illustrating an example of the commercial transaction support system 1 according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram of the consumer terminal 2 (more specifically, the mobile information terminal 2a). FIG. 3 is a table 651t schematically illustrating an example of information stored in the storage device 65 of the transaction management device 6 (more specifically, the store information database 651). FIG. 4 is a table 653t schematically illustrating an example of information stored in the storage device 65 of the transaction management device 6 (more specifically, the member information database 653). FIGS. 5 and 6 are a table 655t schematically illustrating an example of information stored in the storage device 65 of the transaction management device 6 (more specifically, the coupon information database 655). FIG. 7 is a diagram schematically illustrating a completion notification of the coupon purchase process displayed on the display 23 of the consumer terminal 2. FIG. 8 is a diagram schematically illustrating transaction information (S-1, P-1, J-1) being transmitted from the consumer terminal 2 to the transaction management device 6. FIG. 9 is a diagram schematically illustrating transaction information (S-1, P-1, J-1) being transmitted from the store terminal 5 to the transaction management device 6. FIG. 10 is a diagram schematically illustrating a notification of completion of the secondary coupon issuance process being displayed on the display 23 of the consumer terminal 2. FIG. 11 is a diagram schematically illustrating a transmission of secondary coupon identification information K-1 identifying secondary coupon N from the consumer terminal 2 to the second consumer terminal 41. FIG. 12 is a diagram schematically illustrating a transmission of second transaction information (S-2, P-2, K-1) from the store terminal 5 to the transaction management device 6. FIG. 13 is a diagram schematically illustrating a transmission of a print command from the consumer terminal 2 to the printer 46 to print secondary coupon identification information K-1 identifying secondary coupon N. FIG. 14 is a diagram schematically illustrating the state in which second transaction information (S-2, P-2, K-1) is being transmitted from the store terminal 5 to the transaction management device 6. FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an example of a commercial transaction method in the first embodiment. FIG. 16 is a diagram schematically illustrating the state in which the member registration process is being executed. FIG. 17 is a diagram schematically illustrating the state in which the login processing process is being executed.FIG. 18 is a diagram schematically illustrating the main coupon selection process being executed. FIG. 19 is a diagram schematically illustrating a questionnaire being displayed on the display 23 of the consumer terminal 2. FIG. 20 is a diagram schematically illustrating an input from the first consumer regarding the payment method for the purchase price of the main coupon being accepted. FIG. 21 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of the main coupon use process. FIG. 22 is a diagram schematically illustrating a process in which store identification information S-1 identifying a store is read using the camera of the consumer terminal 2. FIG. 23 is a diagram schematically illustrating a process in which the amount information input process is being executed. FIG. 24 is a diagram schematically illustrating a process in which store identification information S-1 identifying a store, amount information P-1 indicating the amount of the main coupon to be used, and information regarding the main coupon to be used are displayed on the display 23 of the consumer terminal 2. FIG. 25 is a diagram schematically illustrating a process in which information indicating that the transaction has been completed is displayed on the display 23 of the consumer terminal 2. FIG. 26 is a sequence diagram illustrating another example of the main coupon use process. FIG. 27 is a diagram schematically illustrating the display 23 of the consumer terminal 2 displaying main coupon identification information J-1 that identifies the main coupon to be used for payment. FIG. 28 is a diagram schematically illustrating the display 23 of the consumer terminal 2 displaying a payment method selection screen that allows the user to select either the user scan method or the store scan method. FIG. 29 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of a secondary coupon acquisition processing step. FIG. 30 is a diagram schematically illustrating the input of the amount to be changed from the main coupon to the secondary coupon. FIG. 31 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of a secondary coupon use processing step. FIG. 32 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of a secondary coupon unused amount recovery processing step. FIG. 33 is a diagram schematically illustrating the procedure for suspending the use of a secondary coupon. FIG. 34 is a diagram schematically illustrating the display 23 of the consumer terminal 2 displaying information indicating that the use of a secondary coupon has been suspended. FIG. 35 is a sequence diagram illustrating another example of a secondary coupon unused amount recovery processing step.

[0027] (Commerce Support System 1) In the example shown in FIG. 1, the commercial transaction support system 1 includes a consumer terminal 2, which is a terminal of a first consumer, a store terminal 5, which is a terminal on the store side, and a transaction management device 6. Additionally, the commercial transaction support system 1 may include a website management device 7. Each of the transaction management device 6 and the website management device 7 may include multiple computers or multiple servers. Furthermore, a part of the transaction management device 6 and a part of the website management device 7 may be shared.

[0028] The consumer terminal 2 is typically a portable computer (hereinafter referred to as "mobile information terminal 2a") operated by the first consumer. The consumer terminal 2 is, for example, a smartphone, a mobile phone, or a tablet terminal. Note that multiple terminals owned by the first consumer may work together to function as the consumer terminal 2 for executing a commercial transaction using a main coupon. For example, it is conceivable that a main coupon is purchased using a personal computer 2b in the first consumer's home, and the main coupon is used using the first consumer's mobile information terminal 2a. In this case, the personal computer 2b and the mobile information terminal 2a work together to function as the consumer terminal 2.

[0029] 2, the consumer terminal 2 includes a user interface 21, a display 23, a communication interface 24, a storage device 25, and a processor 27. Additionally, the consumer terminal 2 preferably includes a camera 29.

[0030] 1, the user interface 21 includes a touch panel input device 21a arranged on the display 23. Alternatively, or additionally, the user interface 21 may be a keyboard 21b, a mouse, etc.

[0031] The display 23 displays characters, symbols, and figures as images that are visible to the first consumer. The consumer terminal 2 can communicate with other devices (e.g., transaction management device 6) via a network 11 or the like, either wired or wirelessly. The communication interface 24 of the consumer terminal 2 is an interface for receiving various information transmitted from other devices (e.g., transaction management device 6) and transmitting various information to other devices (e.g., transaction management device 6).

[0032] 2, the storage device 25 stores a program 91, data 94 required for executing the program 91, and other information. The processor 27 executes the program 91 to cause the consumer terminal 2 to function as a first processing means 271, a second processing means 272, a request means 273, an output means 274, etc., which will be described later. When the processor 27 executes the program 91, part of the program may be provided via the network 11.

[0033] Camera 29 acquires image data in response to the operation of an imaging button (part of the touch panel may function as the imaging button) that is part of user interface 21. The image data acquired by camera 29 is stored in storage device 25.

[0034] In the example shown in Fig. 1, the store terminal 5 is a POS device equipped with a scanner 51. Alternatively, the store terminal 5 may be a mobile information terminal (e.g., a smartphone) equipped with a camera. The store terminal 5 is communicably connected to the transaction management device 6 via a network 11.

[0035] 1, the transaction management device 6 includes a processing device 63 including a processor, and a storage device 65. The storage device 65 may include a store information database 651, a member information database 653, and a coupon information database 655.

[0036] The storage device 65 stores store information. In the example shown in Fig. 3, the storage device 65 (more specifically, the store information database 651) stores a store name, store identification information S (in other words, a store ID) that identifies the store, and a store location (for example, the address of the store) in association with each other. The storage device 65 may also store the store identification information S (in other words, a store ID) that identifies the store in association with sales information at the store resulting from the use of a coupon.

[0037] 4, the storage device 65 (more specifically, the member information database 653) stores the member name, member identification information that identifies the member (in other words, the member ID), the member's contact information (e.g., email address, telephone number), and the member's address in association with each other.

[0038] 5, the storage device 65 (more specifically, the coupon information database 655) stores main coupon identification information J (in other words, a main coupon ID) that identifies a main coupon, a main coupon balance that indicates the remaining balance of the main coupon, and member identification information of the member who purchased the main coupon, in association with each other. The storage device 65 may also store the main coupon identification information J in association with the issued amount of the main coupon (in other words, the balance of the main coupon at the time of issuance).

[0039] As illustrated in FIG. 5, the memory device 65 (more specifically, the coupon information database 655) may store, in association with one another, main coupon identification information J that identifies a main coupon, a main coupon balance indicating the remaining balance of the main coupon, member identification information of the member who purchased the main coupon, secondary coupon identification information K that identifies a secondary coupon issued based on the main coupon, and a secondary coupon balance indicating the remaining balance of the secondary coupon.

[0040] The processing device 63 of the transaction management device 6 performs payment processing and other processing based on information received from the consumer terminal 2 and / or the store terminal 5 and information stored in the storage device 65.

[0041] The website management device 7 manages websites accessed by member consumers and non-member consumers.

[0042] In the example shown in Figure 7 (or Figure 23, etc.), information indicating the main coupon M issued in association with the first consumer (in other words, information indicating the main coupon M issued in association with the first consumer) is displayed on the display 23 of the consumer terminal 2. In the example shown in Figure 2, the processor 27 of the consumer terminal 2 executes the program 91 to cause the consumer terminal 2 to function as a first processing means 271 that displays information indicating the main coupon issued in association with the first consumer on the display 23.

[0043] The first consumer can confirm the existence of the main coupon M by visually checking the information indicating the main coupon M displayed on the display 23. Furthermore, the first consumer can use the main coupon M to pay for the purchase of a product or the reception of a service by selecting the main coupon M via the user interface 21. As illustrated in FIG. 7 , the information indicating the main coupon M may include the name E1 of the main coupon M, the remaining balance E2 of the main coupon M, the name E3 of the region in which the main coupon M can be used, the expiration date E4 of the main coupon M, and main coupon identification information J-1 identifying the main coupon M. Furthermore, the main coupon identification information J-1 identifying the main coupon M may be provided in the form of a two-dimensional barcode BC1, an identification number, or another format. It is preferable that each of the main coupon identification information and the sub-coupon identification information be convertible between a two-dimensional barcode format and a character string format.

[0044] In the example shown in Figure 2, the processor 27 of the consumer terminal 2 executes the program 91 to cause the consumer terminal 2 to function as a second processing means 272 that performs at least part of the payment procedure for purchasing goods or receiving services using the main coupon M.

[0045] In the example shown in FIG. 8, the consumer terminal 2 (more specifically, the second processing means 272) transmits (1) store identification information S-1 identifying the store providing the product or service (e.g., information identifying store A1 shown in FIG. 3), (2) amount information P-1 indicating the amount to be used for the main coupon (more specifically, amount information indicating the price of the product or service to be purchased), and (3) main coupon identification information J-1 identifying the main coupon M to the transaction management device 6 via the communication interface 24. In this way, the second processing means 272 executes part of the payment procedure for purchasing the product or receiving the service. In addition, the transaction management device 6, which receives the store identification information S-1, amount information P-1 indicating the amount to be used for the main coupon, and main coupon identification information J-1, executes another part of the payment procedure (more specifically, the settlement process).

[0046] Figures 3(b) and 5(b) show a state in which main coupon M is used for 3,000 yen, resulting in an increase in store A1's sales by 3,000 yen (see Figure 3(b)), and a state in which the balance of the main coupon with main coupon identification information △△ is decreased by 3,000 yen (see Figure 5(b)).

[0047] On the other hand, in the example shown in FIG. 9 , the consumer terminal 2 (more specifically, the second processing means 272) displays the main coupon identification information J-1, which identifies the main coupon M, on the display 23 in a format readable by the store terminal 5a (for example, in the form of a two-dimensional barcode BC1). In this way, the second processing means 272 executes part of the payment procedure for purchasing a product or receiving a service. The store terminal 5a (more specifically, the camera of the store terminal 5a or the scanner 51a of the store terminal 5a) reads the main coupon identification information J-1, which identifies the main coupon M displayed on the display 23. The store terminal 5a then transmits the read main coupon identification information J-1, store identification information S-1, which identifies the store providing the product or service, and amount information P-1, which indicates the amount of the main coupon used (more specifically, amount information indicating the price of the product or service to be purchased), to the transaction management device 6. In this way, the store terminal 5a executes part of the payment procedure for purchasing a product or receiving a service. Furthermore, the transaction management device 6, which receives the store identification information S-1, amount information P-1 indicating the amount used for the main coupon, and main coupon identification information J-1, executes another part of the payment procedure (more specifically, the settlement processing).

[0048] Figures 3(b) and 5(b) show a state in which main coupon M is used for 3,000 yen, resulting in an increase in store A1's sales by 3,000 yen (see Figure 3(b)), and a state in which the balance of the main coupon with main coupon identification information △△ is decreased by 3,000 yen (see Figure 5(b)).

[0049] In the example shown in Figure 2, the processor 27 of the consumer terminal 2 executes the program 91 to cause the consumer terminal 2 to function as a request means 273. The request means 273 sends a request to the transaction management device 6 to change at least a portion of the main coupon M (e.g., 5,000 yen) into a secondary coupon N that can be used by a second consumer different from the first consumer.

[0050] The transaction management device 6 issues a secondary coupon N in response to receiving the above-mentioned request from the consumer terminal 2. In the example shown in Figures 5(b) and 6(a), for a main coupon with coupon identification information △△, 5,000 yen is changed to a secondary coupon, thereby reducing the balance of the main coupon by 5,000 yen and issuing a secondary coupon for 5,000 yen.

[0051] The processing device 63 of the transaction management device 6 transmits a notification of the completion of the secondary coupon issuance process and secondary coupon identification information K-1 that identifies the issued secondary coupon N to the consumer terminal 2. The consumer terminal 2 also displays the completion notification information of the secondary coupon issuance process on the display 23. In the example shown in Fig. 10, the completion notification information displayed on the display 23 includes the name F1 of the secondary coupon, the balance F2 of the secondary coupon, the name E1 of the main coupon, and the balance E2 of the main coupon.

[0052] 11 shows an example in which secondary coupon identification information K-1 (e.g., two-dimensional barcode BC2 identifying secondary coupon N) identifying secondary coupon N is transmitted from the consumer terminal 2 of the first consumer to the second consumer terminal 41 of the second consumer. The transmission may be performed by sending the secondary coupon identification information K-1 from the consumer terminal 2 to the second consumer terminal 41. Alternatively, the transmission may be performed by using a camera of the second consumer terminal 41 to read the secondary coupon identification information K-1 (e.g., two-dimensional barcode BC2 identifying secondary coupon N) displayed on the display 23 of the consumer terminal 2.

[0053] In the example shown in FIG. 2, the processor 27 of the consumer terminal 2 executes the program 91 to cause the consumer terminal 2 to function as an output means 274 that outputs secondary coupon identification information K-1 that identifies the secondary coupon.

[0054] 11, the consumer terminal 2 (more specifically, the output means 274) transmits the secondary coupon identification information K-1 to the second consumer terminal 41 via the communication interface 24. Alternatively, the output means 274 may display the secondary coupon identification information K-1 on the display 23 in a format readable by the second consumer terminal 41 (for example, in the format of a two-dimensional barcode BC2).

[0055] In the example shown in FIG. 12, the second consumer terminal 41 displays secondary coupon identification information K-1, which identifies the secondary coupon N, on the display 43 of the second consumer terminal 41 in a format readable by the store terminal 5b (e.g., the format of a two-dimensional barcode BC2). The store terminal 5b (more specifically, the camera of the store terminal 5b or the scanner 51b of the store terminal 5b) reads the secondary coupon identification information K-1 (e.g., the two-dimensional barcode BC2) that identifies the secondary coupon N displayed on the display 43. The store terminal 5b then transmits the read secondary coupon identification information K-1, store identification information S-2 (e.g., information identifying store A2 shown in FIG. 3) that identifies the store providing the product or service, and second amount information P-2 (more specifically, amount information indicating the price of the product or service to be purchased) that indicates the amount of the secondary coupon to be used to purchase the product or service, to the transaction management device 6. The transaction management device 6 executes the payment process based on the received store identification information S-2, second amount information P-2, and secondary coupon identification information K-1.

[0056] Figures 3(c) and 6(b) show a state in which secondary coupon N is used for 2,000 yen, resulting in an increase in sales at store A2 by 2,000 yen (see Figure 3(c)), and a state in which the balance of the secondary coupon linked to the main coupon whose main coupon identification information is △△ is decreased by 2,000 yen (see Figure 6(b)).

[0057] As described above, in the first embodiment, the secondary coupon N issued based on the primary coupon M can be used for payment by the second consumer, thus allowing flexible use of coupons.

[0058] 13, the consumer terminal 2 (more specifically, the output means 274) sends a print command to the printer 46 to print secondary coupon identification information K-1 (for example, a two-dimensional barcode BC2) that identifies the secondary coupon N. Based on the print command, the printer 46 prints the secondary coupon identification information K-1 (for example, a two-dimensional barcode BC2) that identifies the secondary coupon N on the paper medium 47.

[0059] In the example shown in FIG. 14, the store terminal 5b (more specifically, the camera of the store terminal 5b or the scanner 51b of the store terminal 5b) reads secondary coupon identification information K-1 (for example, a two-dimensional barcode BC2 identifying the secondary coupon N) that identifies the secondary coupon N printed on the paper medium 47. The store terminal 5b then transmits the read secondary coupon identification information K-1, store identification information S-2 that identifies the store that provides the product or service (for example, information that identifies store A2 shown in FIG. 3), and second amount information P-2 that indicates the amount of the secondary coupon used (more specifically, amount information that indicates the price of the product or service) to the transaction management device 6. The transaction management device 6 executes the payment process based on the received store identification information S-2, second amount information P-2, and secondary coupon identification information K-1.

[0060] Figures 3(c) and 6(b) show a state in which the sales of store A2 increase by 2,000 yen when a secondary coupon of 2,000 yen is used (see Figure 3(c)), and a state in which the balance of the secondary coupon linked to the main coupon whose main coupon identification information is △△ decreases by 2,000 yen (see Figure 6(b)).

[0061] As described above, in the first embodiment, the secondary coupon N issued based on the primary coupon M can be used for payment by the second consumer, thus allowing flexible use of coupons.

[0062] For example, if the first consumer is unable to use up all of the main coupons M, the first consumer can change at least some of the main coupons M to secondary coupons N. Therefore, when the first consumer's family members or others use the secondary coupons N to go shopping, the main coupons are used efficiently, and consumption using coupons increases.

[0063] Also, a first consumer can use a primary coupon M at store A1, and at the same time a second consumer can use a secondary coupon N at a different store A2. In this case, for example, the first consumer and the second consumer traveling together can act separately to buy souvenirs.

[0064] In the above example, at least a portion of the primary coupon M issued to the first consumer, who is a member consumer, is changed to a secondary coupon N that can be used by the second consumer, who is a non-member consumer. The secondary coupon N can also be used by non-member consumers. This allows for more flexible coupon usage.

[0065] (Optional configuration) Next, optional additional configurations that can be employed in the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0066] (Collection request method 275) In the example shown in Figure 2, the processor 27 of the consumer terminal 2 executes the program 91 to cause the consumer terminal 2 to function as a withdrawal request means 275. The withdrawal request means 275 requests the transaction management device 6 to withdraw the unused amount of the secondary coupon N.

[0067] More specifically, the withdrawal request means 275 transmits to the transaction management device 6 secondary coupon identification information K-1 that identifies the secondary coupon N that is the subject of unused amount withdrawal, and unused amount withdrawal request information that includes a request to suspend use of the secondary coupon. Based on the received secondary coupon identification information K-1 and the request to suspend use of the secondary coupon, the transaction management device 6 disables the use of the secondary coupon identified by the secondary coupon identification information K-1. The transaction management device 6 also increases the balance of the main coupon M that was the basis for issuing the secondary coupon by an amount corresponding to the unused amount of the secondary coupon N. In this way, the unused amount of the secondary coupon N is withdrawn, and the withdrawn unused amount is converted back into part of the main coupon M.

[0068] Figure 6(c) shows that the balance of a secondary coupon with secondary coupon identification information △△△ is changed to zero so that the secondary coupon cannot be used, and the balance of the main coupon that was the basis for issuing the secondary coupon is increased by 3,000 yen.

[0069] When the consumer terminal 2 functions as the withdrawal request means 275 that requests the withdrawal of the unused amount of the secondary coupon N, the unused amount of the secondary coupon is prevented from being left unused. In the above example, the withdrawal request means 275 requests the transaction management device 6 to increase the balance of the main coupon that was the basis for issuing the secondary coupon N by an amount corresponding to the unused amount of the secondary coupon N. In this case, the withdrawn unused amount is collected in the main coupon that was the basis for issuing the secondary coupon N, thereby eliminating the problem of the coupon balance being dispersed across multiple coupons.

[0070] In the above example, the timing at which the consumer terminal 2 requests the transaction management device 6 to collect the unused amount of the secondary coupon is different from the timing at which the consumer terminal 2 requests the transaction management device 6 to issue the secondary coupon. Alternatively, the timing at which the consumer terminal 2 requests the transaction management device 6 to collect the unused amount of the secondary coupon may be the same as the timing at which the consumer terminal 2 requests the transaction management device 6 to issue the secondary coupon.

[0071] More specifically, the request to change at least some of the main coupons to secondary coupons may include expiration date information R of the secondary coupons (see FIG. 30, if necessary). In this case, the request means 273 of the consumer terminal 2 in FIG. 2 (more specifically, the request means 273 that sends a request to change at least some of the main coupons to secondary coupons to the transaction management device 6) also functions as the withdrawal request means 275 described above. More specifically, the request means 273 that also functions as the withdrawal request means 275 is configured to request the transaction management device 6 to automatically withdraw the unused amount of the secondary coupons as the expiration date of the secondary coupons passes.

[0072] If the system is configured so that the unused amount of the secondary coupon is automatically collected as the expiration date of the secondary coupon passes, the unused amount is reliably collected, thereby preventing secondary coupons with non-zero balances from being left as they are.

[0073] (Commercial transaction method in the first embodiment) Next, an example of a commercial transaction method according to the first embodiment will be described. The commercial transaction method according to the first embodiment is executed using a commercial transaction support system 1.

[0074] (Main coupon purchase processing step) In the first step ST1, a process for purchasing a main coupon is executed. The first step ST1 is a main coupon purchasing process step. The main coupon purchasing process step includes a plurality of sub-steps.

[0075] In sub-step ST1-1, the first consumer is registered as a member using a website managed by the website management device 7. Sub-step ST1-1 is a member registration step. Figure 16 shows how sub-step ST1-1 (member registration step) is being executed.

[0076] The member registration process is executed, for example, by the first consumer accessing a member registration website managed by the website management device 7 and entering the necessary information into an input form on the website. The member information entered into the input form is stored in the memory device 65 (more specifically, the member information database 653) of the transaction management device 6, as illustrated in FIG.

[0077] If the first consumer has already been registered as a member in the transaction management device 6, sub-step ST1-1 (member registration step) is omitted.

[0078] In substep ST1-2, a login process is executed by the first consumer to the members-only website managed by the website management device 7. Substep ST1-2 is a login process step. As illustrated in FIG. 17, the login process step is executed by the first consumer entering a login ID and password into the login information input form of the website.

[0079] In substep ST1-3, a process for selecting a main coupon to be purchased is executed. Substep ST1-3 is a main coupon selection process. The main coupon selection process is executed by the first consumer selecting a main coupon to be purchased on a members-only website, as exemplified in FIG. 18.

[0080] 18, the main coupon selection process includes displaying multiple types of main coupons on the display 23 of the consumer terminal 2 and accepting the first consumer's selection of one of the multiple types of main coupons. In the example shown in FIG. 18, the first consumer can select XX Town Premium Gift Certificate C and XX Town Premium Gift Certificate D.

[0081] As illustrated in Fig. 19, the main coupon selection process step may include a step of confirming whether the first consumer meets the purchase eligibility requirements for the main coupon selected by the first consumer. In the example illustrated in Fig. 19, the main coupon purchase process step includes displaying a questionnaire on the display 23 of the consumer terminal 2 to confirm whether the first consumer meets the purchase eligibility requirements, and accepting responses to the questionnaire.

[0082] In substep ST1-4, payment processing for the selected main coupon is executed. Substep ST1-4 is a payment processing step. In the example shown in FIG. 20, the payment processing step includes receiving input from the first consumer regarding the payment method for the purchase price of the main coupon. The purchase price of the main coupon may be paid by credit card or by bank transfer (e.g., internet banking).

[0083] In substep ST1-5, information identifying the first consumer and information identifying the main coupon purchased by the first consumer are associated with each other and stored in the storage device 65 of the transaction management device 6. Substep ST1-5 is a storage step.

[0084] The storage step is executed in response to the first consumer purchasing a main coupon. In the example shown in Figure 5(a), the storage step includes storing, in the memory device 65 (more specifically, the coupon information database 655) of the transaction management device 6, member identification information ("H001") that identifies the first consumer, main coupon identification information ("△△") that identifies the main coupon purchased by the first consumer, and the balance of the main coupon ("24,000 yen") in association with each other.

[0085] In substep ST1-6, the transaction management device 6 sends a notification of completion of the main coupon purchase and main coupon identification information J-1 that identifies the purchased main coupon to the consumer terminal 2. Substep ST1-6 is a main coupon purchase completion notification step. As illustrated in Figure 7, in the main coupon purchase completion notification step, it is preferable that information indicating the main coupon M purchased by the first consumer is displayed on the display 23 of the consumer terminal 2.

[0086] (First example of main coupon usage process: User scan method) In the second step ST2, a process for using the main coupon is executed. The second step ST2 is a main coupon use processing step. As illustrated in Fig. 21, the main coupon use processing step includes a plurality of sub-steps (ST2-1 to ST2-7).

[0087] As illustrated in FIG. 21, in substep ST2-1, a login process to a members-only website managed by the website management device 7 is executed using the consumer terminal 2. Substep ST2-1 is a login process step. The login process step may be executed by inputting a login ID and password into a login information input form on the website (see FIG. 17 if necessary), or may be executed automatically by launching a dedicated app on the consumer terminal 2.

[0088] If the first consumer has already logged in to the members-only website, sub-step ST2-1 is omitted.

[0089] 21, in sub-step ST2-2, processing for inputting information for identifying a store is executed using the consumer terminal 2. Sub-step ST2-2 is a store information input processing step.

[0090] 22, the store information input processing step is executed by reading store identification information S-1 (e.g., a two-dimensional barcode) that identifies the store using a camera of the consumer terminal 2. Alternatively, the store information input processing step may be executed by inputting identification information that identifies the store using the user interface 21 of the consumer terminal 2.

[0091] 2, the processor 27 of the consumer terminal 2 executes the program 91 to cause the consumer terminal 2 to function as a store identification information acquisition means 276. The store identification information acquisition means 276 acquires store identification information S-1 that identifies a store via the camera 29 or user interface 21 of the consumer terminal 2.

[0092] As illustrated in Figure 21, in substep ST2-3, a process for selecting a main coupon to be used for payment is executed using the consumer terminal 2. Substep ST2-3 is a coupon-to-be-used selection process. The coupon-to-be-used selection process is executed, for example, by using the user interface 21 to select a main coupon to be used this time from multiple main coupons displayed on the display 23 of the consumer terminal 2. Figure 23 shows the state after the coupon-to-be-used selection process has been executed.

[0093] Substep ST2-3 may be performed before or after substep ST2-2, and may be omitted if there is only one usable main coupon.

[0094] 21, in substep ST2-4, an input process of amount information P-1 indicating the amount to be used for the main coupon (more specifically, an input process of amount information indicating the price of the product or service purchased by the first consumer) is executed using the consumer terminal 2. Substep ST2-4 is a amount information input process.

[0095] 23, the amount information input process is executed by inputting amount information P-1 indicating the amount to be used for the main coupon using the user interface 21 of the consumer terminal 2. Alternatively, the amount information input process may be executed automatically by reading a barcode (e.g., a two-dimensional barcode) associated with the product or service using the camera 29 of the consumer terminal 2.

[0096] 2, the processor 27 of the consumer terminal 2 executes the program 91 to cause the consumer terminal 2 to function as amount information acquisition means 277. The amount information acquisition means 277 acquires amount information P-1 indicating the amount of the main coupon used via the camera 29 or user interface 21 of the consumer terminal 2.

[0097] As illustrated in Figure 24, after the consumer terminal 2 acquires store identification information S-1 that identifies the store and amount information P-1 that indicates the amount to be used for the main coupon, it is preferable that the display 23 of the consumer terminal 2 simultaneously displays the store identification information S-1 that identifies the store, the amount information P-1 that indicates the amount to be used for the main coupon, and information about the main coupon to be used (more specifically, information indicating the name E1 of the main coupon to be used).

[0098] 2, the processor 27 of the consumer terminal 2 executes the program 91 to cause the consumer terminal 2 to function as a third processing means 278. The third processing means 278 causes the display 23 of the consumer terminal 2 to simultaneously display store identification information S-1 that identifies the store, amount information P-1 that indicates the amount to be used of the main coupon, and information (E1) about the main coupon to be used.

[0099] 24, the above-mentioned store identification information S-1, the above-mentioned amount information P-1, and the information (E1) regarding the main coupon to be used are displayed upside down on the display 23 of the consumer terminal 2 so that they are easily visible to the first consumer, and the above-mentioned store identification information S-1, the above-mentioned amount information P-1, and the information (E1) regarding the main coupon to be used are displayed upside down so that they are easily visible to the store clerk. In this case, the first consumer and the store clerk can simultaneously and easily check the transaction information displayed on the consumer terminal 2.

[0100] 8 and 21, transaction information including (1) store identification information S-1 that identifies the store that provides the product or service, (2) amount information P-1 that indicates the amount to be used for the main coupon, and (3) main coupon identification information J-1 that identifies the main coupon is transmitted from the consumer terminal 2 to the transaction management device 6. Substep ST2-5 is a transaction information transmission step.

[0101] In the example shown in Figure 2, the processor 27 of the consumer terminal 2 executes the program 91 to cause the consumer terminal 2 to function as second processing means 272. The second processing means 272 transmits transaction information including (1) store identification information S-1 that identifies the store providing the product or service, (2) amount information P-1 that indicates the amount of the main coupon to be used, and (3) main coupon identification information J-1 that identifies the main coupon to the transaction management device 6 via the communication interface 24.

[0102] 21, in substep ST2-6, the processing device 63 of the transaction management device 6 executes a payment process in response to the transaction management device 6 receiving the above-mentioned transaction information from the consumer terminal 2. Substep ST2-6 is a payment processing step.

[0103] In the payment processing step, the processing device 63 of the transaction management device 6 increases the sales of the store identified by the store identification information S-1 by the amount indicated by the amount information P-1, based on the store identification information S-1 and amount information P-1 received from the consumer terminal 2. In the example shown in Figure 3(b), the processing device 63 of the transaction management device 6 increases the sales of the store A1 identified by the store identification information S-1 by the amount indicated by the amount information P-1, based on the store identification information S-1 and amount information P-1 received from the consumer terminal 2, and stores the increased sales of store A1 in the storage device 65 (more specifically, the store information database 651).

[0104] In the settlement process, the processing device 63 of the transaction management device 6 reduces the balance of the main coupon identified by the main coupon identification information J-1 by the amount indicated by the amount information P-1 (in other words, reduces the balance by the amount used of the main coupon) based on the amount information P-1 and the main coupon identification information J-1, which indicate the amount used of the main coupon. In the example shown in Figure 5(b), the processing device 63 of the transaction management device 6 reduces the balance of the main coupon identified by the main coupon identification information J-1 by the amount indicated by the amount information P-1, based on the amount information P-1 and the main coupon identification information J-1, and stores the reduced balance of the main coupon in the storage device 65 (more specifically, the coupon information database 655).

[0105] As illustrated in Figure 21, in substep ST2-7, the transaction management device 6 sends a transaction completion notification to the consumer terminal 2. Substep ST2-7 is a transaction completion notification step. The transaction completion notification step preferably includes displaying information indicating that the transaction has been completed on the display 23 of the consumer terminal 2.

[0106] In the example shown in FIG. 25, the information indicating that the transaction has been completed includes store identification information S-1 that identifies the store, amount information P-1 that indicates the amount used for the main coupon, and information about the used main coupon (more specifically, information that indicates the name E1 of the main coupon). In the example shown in FIG. 25, the store identification information S-1, amount information P-1, and information about the used main coupon are displayed upside down so that they are easily visible to the store clerk. In this case, the store clerk can easily check the transaction completion notification displayed on the consumer terminal 2.

[0107] (Second example of main coupon usage process: store scan method) In the second step ST2', a process for using the main coupon is executed. The second step ST2' is a main coupon use processing step. As illustrated in Figure 26, the main coupon use processing step includes a plurality of sub-steps (ST2'-1 to ST2'-8).

[0108] As illustrated in Figure 26, in substep ST2'-1, a login process to a members-only website managed by the website management device 7 is executed using the consumer terminal 2. Substep ST2'-1 is a login process step. The login process step may be executed by inputting a login ID and password into a login information input form on the website (see Figure 17 if necessary), or may be executed automatically by launching a dedicated app on the consumer terminal 2.

[0109] If the first consumer has already logged in to the members-only website, sub-step ST2'-1 is omitted.

[0110] 26, in substep ST2'-2, a process for selecting a main coupon to be used for payment is executed using the consumer terminal 2. Substep ST2'-2 is a coupon-to-be-used selection process. The coupon-to-be-used selection process is executed, for example, by using the user interface 21 to select a main coupon to be used this time from multiple main coupons displayed on the display 23 of the consumer terminal 2.

[0111] If there is only one usable main coupon, sub-step ST2'-2 may be omitted.

[0112] As shown in Fig. 26, in substep ST2'-3, a process for displaying the main coupon used for payment is executed. Substep ST2'-3 is a process for displaying the coupon used.

[0113] In the used coupon display processing step, main coupon identification information J-1 that identifies the main coupon to be used for payment is displayed on the display 23 of the consumer terminal 2 in a format that can be read by the store terminal 5a (for example, in the form of a two-dimensional barcode BC1). Figure 27 shows the state after the used coupon display processing step has been executed.

[0114] In the example shown in Figure 2, the processor 27 of the consumer terminal 2 executes the program 91 to cause the consumer terminal 2 to function as a second processing means 272 that displays on the display 23 the main coupon identification information J-1 that identifies the main coupon to be used for payment in a format readable by the store terminal 5a.

[0115] 26, in sub-step ST2'-4, a process of inputting price information indicating the price of the product or service purchased by the first consumer is executed using the store terminal 5a. Sub-step ST2'-4 is a price information input process.

[0116] The amount information input process is automatically executed, for example, by reading a barcode associated with a product or service using a scanner or camera of the store terminal 5a. When the payment for the product or service purchased by the first consumer is made using a main coupon, the amount information indicating the price of the product or service purchased by the first consumer corresponds to amount information P-1 indicating the amount used for the main coupon. Therefore, by executing the amount information input process, the store terminal 5a acquires amount information P-1 indicating the amount used for the main coupon.

[0117] Substep ST2'-4 may be executed before the execution of substeps ST2'-1 to ST2'-3, or after the execution of substeps ST2'-1 to ST2'-3, or may be executed at the same time as any of substeps ST2'-1 to ST2'-3.

[0118] As shown in Fig. 26, in sub-step ST2'-5, a process of reading a main coupon to be used for payment is executed. Sub-step ST2'-5 is a coupon-to-be-used reading process step.

[0119] In the coupon-to-be-used reading process, the main coupon identification information J-1, which identifies the main coupon to be used for payment, is read by the store terminal 5a (more specifically, the scanner or camera of the store terminal 5a). By executing the coupon-to-be-used reading process, the store terminal 5a obtains the main coupon identification information J-1.

[0120] 9 and 26, transaction information including (1) store identification information S-1 that identifies the store that provides the product or service, (2) amount information P-1 that indicates the amount to be used for the main coupon, and (3) main coupon identification information J-1 that identifies the main coupon is transmitted from the store terminal 5a to the transaction management device 6. Substep ST2'-6 is a transaction information transmission step.

[0121] 26, in substep ST2'-7, the processing device 63 of the transaction management device 6 executes a settlement process in response to the transaction management device 6 receiving the above-mentioned transaction information from the store terminal 5a. Substep ST2'-7 is a settlement process step.

[0122] In the settlement processing step, the processing device 63 of the transaction management device 6 increases the sales of the store identified by the store identification information S-1 by the amount indicated by the amount information P-1, based on the store identification information S-1 and amount information P-1 received from the store terminal 5a. In the example shown in Figure 3(b), the processing device 63 of the transaction management device 6 increases the sales of the store A1 identified by the store identification information S-1 by the amount indicated by the amount information P-1, based on the store identification information S-1 and amount information P-1 received from the store terminal 5a, and stores the increased sales of store A1 in the storage device 65 (more specifically, the store information database 651).

[0123] In the settlement process, the processing device 63 of the transaction management device 6 reduces the balance of the main coupon identified by the main coupon identification information J-1 by the amount indicated by the amount information P-1 (in other words, reduces the balance by the amount used of the main coupon) based on the amount information P-1 and the main coupon identification information J-1, which indicate the amount used of the main coupon. In the example shown in Figure 5(b), the processing device 63 of the transaction management device 6 reduces the balance of the main coupon identified by the main coupon identification information J-1 by the amount indicated by the amount information P-1, based on the amount information P-1 and the main coupon identification information J-1, and stores the reduced balance of the main coupon in the storage device 65 (more specifically, the coupon information database 655).

[0124] As illustrated in Figure 26, in substep ST2'-8, the processing device 63 of the transaction management device 6 sends a transaction completion notification to each of the consumer terminal 2 and the store terminal 5a. Substep ST2'-8 is a transaction completion notification step. The transaction completion notification step preferably includes displaying information indicating that the transaction has been completed on each of the display 23 of the consumer terminal 2 and the display of the store terminal 5a.

[0125] (Select either the user scan method or the store scan method) As illustrated in FIG. 28, the consumer terminal 2 displays on the display 23 a payment method selection screen that allows the user to select either the user scan method T1 or the store scan method T2. In this specification, the user scan method refers to a method in which the consumer terminal 2 transmits to the transaction management device 6 (1) store identification information that identifies the store that provides the product or service, (2) amount information indicating the amount to be used of the main coupon (or secondary coupon), and (3) main coupon identification information that identifies the main coupon (or secondary coupon identification information that identifies the secondary coupon). Also, in this specification, the store scan method refers to a method in which the store terminal 5 transmits to the transaction management device 6 (1) store identification information that identifies the store that provides the product or service, (2) amount information indicating the amount to be used of the main coupon (or secondary coupon), and (3) main coupon identification information that identifies the main coupon (or secondary coupon identification information that identifies the secondary coupon).

[0126] (Sub-coupon acquisition processing step) In the third step ST3, a secondary coupon acquisition process is executed. The third step ST3 is a secondary coupon acquisition process step. The secondary coupon acquisition process step (third step ST3) may be executed after the main coupon use process step (second step ST2) is executed. In other words, the secondary coupon may be acquired based on the main coupon after at least a portion of the main coupon has been used to pay for a product or service. Alternatively, the secondary coupon acquisition process step (third step ST3) may be executed before the main coupon use process step (second step ST2) is executed. In other words, the secondary coupon may be acquired based on an unused main coupon.

[0127] As shown in FIG. 29, the secondary coupon acquisition process includes a plurality of sub-steps (ST3-1 to ST3-7).

[0128] As illustrated in Figure 29, in substep ST3-1, a login process to a members-only website managed by the website management device 7 is executed using the consumer terminal 2. Substep ST3-1 is a login process step. The login process step may be executed by inputting a login ID and password into a login information input form on the website (see Figure 17 if necessary), or may be executed automatically by launching a dedicated app on the consumer terminal 2.

[0129] If the first consumer has already logged in to the members-only website, sub-step ST3-1 is omitted.

[0130] As illustrated in Figure 29, in substep ST3-2, a process for selecting a main coupon that will be the basis for issuing a secondary coupon is executed using the consumer terminal 2. Substep ST3-2 is a basic coupon selection process. The basic coupon selection process is executed, for example, by using the user interface 21 to select a main coupon that will be the basis for issuing a secondary coupon from among multiple main coupons displayed on the display 23 of the consumer terminal 2. Figure 30 shows the state after the coupon to be used selection process has been executed.

[0131] 30, in substep ST3-3, input processing of change amount information Q indicating the amount to be changed from the selected main coupon to the sub-coupon is executed using the consumer terminal 2. Substep ST3-3 is a change amount information input processing step.

[0132] In the example shown in FIG. 30, the change amount information input process is executed by using the user interface 21 of the consumer terminal 2 to input change amount information Q indicating the amount to be changed to the secondary coupon.

[0133] 30, in sub-step ST3-4, the expiration date of the secondary coupon is input using the consumer terminal 2. Sub-step ST3-4 is an expiration date input process.

[0134] In the example shown in FIG. 30, the expiration date input process is executed by using the user interface 21 of the consumer terminal 2 to input expiration date information R indicating the expiration date of the secondary coupon.

[0135] Sub-step ST3-4 (expiration date input processing step) may be omitted.

[0136] 2, the processor 27 of the consumer terminal 2 executes the program 91 to cause the consumer terminal 2 to function as a secondary coupon issuance request information acquisition means 279. The secondary coupon issuance request information acquisition means 279 acquires (1) main coupon identification information J-1 that identifies the main coupon that is the basis for issuing the secondary coupon, (2) change amount information Q that indicates the amount to change the secondary coupon to, and (3) expiration date information R that indicates the expiration date of the secondary coupon. Note that if substep ST3-4 (expiration date input processing step) is omitted, acquisition of the expiration date information R by the secondary coupon is also omitted.

[0137] 29, in substep ST3-5, secondary coupon issuance request information including (1) main coupon identification information J-1 that identifies the main coupon that is the basis for issuing the secondary coupon, (2) change amount information Q that indicates the amount to be changed into the secondary coupon, and (3) expiration date information R that indicates the expiration date of the secondary coupon is transmitted from the consumer terminal 2 to the transaction management device 6. Substep ST3-5 is a secondary coupon issuance request information transmission step.

[0138] 2, the processor 27 of the consumer terminal 2 executes the program 91 to cause the consumer terminal 2 to function as a request means 273. The request means 273 transmits to the transaction management device 6 secondary coupon issuance request information including (1) main coupon identification information J-1 that identifies the main coupon that is the basis for issuing the secondary coupon, (2) change amount information Q that indicates the amount to be changed to the secondary coupon, and (3) expiration date information R that indicates the expiration date of the secondary coupon.

[0139] If sub-step ST3-4 (use-by date input processing step) is omitted, the transmission of the use-by date information R by the request means 273 is also omitted.

[0140] 29, in substep ST3-6, the processing device 63 of the transaction management device 6 executes a secondary coupon issuance process in response to the transaction management device 6 receiving the above-mentioned secondary coupon issuance request information from the consumer terminal 2. Substep ST3-6 is a secondary coupon issuance process step.

[0141] In the secondary coupon issuance processing step, the processing device 63 of the transaction management device 6 reduces the balance of the main coupon identified by the main coupon identification information J-1 by the amount indicated by the change amount information Q, based on the main coupon identification information J-1 and change amount information Q received from the consumer terminal 2. In addition, the processing device 63 of the transaction management device 6 issues a secondary coupon having a balance corresponding to the amount indicated by the change amount information Q, based on the main coupon identification information J-1 and change amount information Q received from the consumer terminal 2.

[0142] Furthermore, as illustrated in Figure 6(a), the processing device 63 of the transaction management device 6 stores in the memory device 65 (more specifically, the coupon information database 655) (1) main coupon identification information J-1 that identifies the main coupon that was the basis for issuing the secondary coupon, (2) the balance of the main coupon, (3) secondary coupon identification information K-1 that identifies the issued secondary coupon, and (4) the balance of the secondary coupon, in association with each other.

[0143] In addition, if the secondary coupon issuance request information includes expiration date information R, the processing device 63 of the transaction management device 6 stores in the memory device 65 (more specifically, the coupon information database 655) (1) the above-mentioned main coupon identification information J-1, (2) the balance of the main coupon, (3) the above-mentioned secondary coupon identification information K-1, (4) the balance of the secondary coupon, and (5) expiration date information R indicating the expiration date of the secondary coupon, in association with each other (see Figure 6(a)).

[0144] 29, in substep ST3-7, the transaction management device 6 transmits to the consumer terminal 2 a notification of the completion of the secondary coupon issuance process and secondary coupon identification information K-1 that identifies the issued secondary coupon. Substep ST3-7 is a secondary coupon issuance completion notification step. The secondary coupon issuance completion notification step preferably includes displaying information indicating that the issuance of the secondary coupon has been completed on the display 23 of the consumer terminal 2.

[0145] In the example shown in Figure 10, the information indicating that the issuance of the secondary coupon has been completed includes information indicating the name F1 of the secondary coupon, the balance F2 of the secondary coupon, information indicating the name E1 of the main coupon that was the basis for the issuance of the secondary coupon, and the balance E2 of the main coupon.

[0146] (Sub-coupon output processing step) In a fourth step ST4, a secondary coupon output process is executed using the consumer terminal 2. The fourth step ST4 is a secondary coupon output process step.

[0147] 11 , the secondary coupon output processing step includes the consumer terminal 2 transmitting secondary coupon identification information K-1 that identifies the secondary coupon to the second consumer terminal 41. Alternatively, the secondary coupon output processing step may include the consumer terminal 2 displaying the secondary coupon identification information K-1 that identifies the secondary coupon on the display 23 of the consumer terminal 2, and the second consumer terminal 41 reading the secondary coupon identification information K-1 displayed on the display 23.

[0148] Alternatively, as illustrated in FIG. 13, the secondary coupon output processing step may include the consumer terminal 2 sending a print command to the printer 46 to print secondary coupon identification information K-1 that identifies the secondary coupon N, and the printer 46 printing the secondary coupon identification information K-1 that identifies the secondary coupon N on a paper medium 47 based on the print command.

[0149] (Sub-coupon usage processing process: store scan method) In the fifth step ST5, a secondary coupon usage process is executed. The fifth step ST5 is a secondary coupon usage process step. As illustrated in Fig. 31, the secondary coupon usage process step includes a plurality of sub-steps (ST5-1 to ST5-7).

[0150] 31, in substep ST5-1, a process of inputting price information indicating the price of the product or service purchased by the second consumer is executed using the store terminal 5b. Substep ST5-1 is a second price information input process.

[0151] The second amount information input process is automatically executed, for example, by reading a barcode linked to a product or service using a scanner or camera of the store terminal 5b. When the payment for the product or service purchased by the second consumer is made using the secondary coupon N, the amount information indicating the price of the product or service purchased by the second consumer corresponds to the second amount information P-2 indicating the amount to be used for the secondary coupon. Therefore, by executing the second amount information input process, the store terminal 5b acquires the second amount information P-2 indicating the amount to be used for the secondary coupon.

[0152] As illustrated in Fig. 31, in sub-step ST5-2, a secondary coupon to be used for payment is presented. Sub-step ST5-2 is a secondary coupon presenting step. As illustrated in Fig. 12, if secondary coupon identification information K-1 identifying the secondary coupon is stored in the second consumer terminal 41 of the second consumer, the secondary coupon presenting step includes presenting the display 43 of the second consumer terminal 41 on which the secondary coupon identification information K-1 is displayed. Alternatively, as illustrated in Fig. 14, if secondary coupon identification information K-1 identifying the secondary coupon is printed on paper medium 47, the secondary coupon presenting step includes presenting the paper medium 47.

[0153] As shown in Fig. 31, in sub-step ST5-3, a secondary coupon to be used for payment is read. Sub-step ST5-3 is a secondary coupon reading process.

[0154] In the secondary coupon reading process, the secondary coupon identification information K-1, which identifies the secondary coupon to be used for payment, is read by the store terminal 5b (more specifically, the scanner or camera of the store terminal 5b). By executing the secondary coupon reading process, the store terminal 5b obtains the secondary coupon identification information K-1.

[0155] 12, 14, and 31, second transaction information including (1) store identification information S-2 that identifies the store that provides the product or service, (2) second amount information P-2 that indicates the amount to be used for the secondary coupon, and (3) secondary coupon identification information K-1 that identifies the secondary coupon is transmitted from the store terminal 5b to the transaction management device 6. Substep ST5-4 is a second transaction information transmission step.

[0156] 31, in substep ST5-5, the processing device 63 of the transaction management device 6 executes the second payment process based on the above-mentioned second transaction information received from the consumer terminal 2. Substep ST5-5 is a second payment processing step.

[0157] In the second settlement processing step, the processing device 63 of the transaction management device 6 increases the sales of the store identified by the store identification information S-2 by the amount indicated by the second amount information P-2, based on the store identification information S-2 and second amount information P-2 received from the store terminal 5b. In the example shown in Figure 3(c), the processing device 63 of the transaction management device 6 increases the sales of the store A2 identified by the store identification information S-2 by the amount indicated by the second amount information P-2, based on the store identification information S-2 and second amount information P-2 received from the store terminal 5b, and stores the increased sales of store A2 in the storage device 65 (more specifically, the store information database 651).

[0158] In the second payment processing step, the processing device 63 of the transaction management device 6 reduces the balance of the secondary coupon identified by the secondary coupon identification information K-1 by the amount indicated by the second amount information P-2 (in other words, reduces the balance by the amount used of the secondary coupon) based on the second amount information P-2 and the secondary coupon identification information K-1, which indicate the amount used of the secondary coupon. In the example shown in Figure 6(b), the processing device 63 of the transaction management device 6 reduces the balance of the secondary coupon identified by the secondary coupon identification information K-1 by the amount indicated by the second amount information P-2, based on the second amount information P-2 and the secondary coupon identification information K-1, and stores the reduced balance of the secondary coupon in the storage device 65 (more specifically, the coupon information database 655).

[0159] As illustrated in Figure 31, in substep ST5-6, the transaction management device 6 sends a transaction completion notification to the store terminal 5b. Substep ST5-6 is a second transaction completion notification step. The second transaction completion notification step preferably includes displaying information indicating that the transaction has been completed on the display of the store terminal 5b.

[0160] 31, in substep ST5-7, the transaction management device 6 transmits a usage notification indicating that the secondary coupon has been used to the consumer terminal 2. Substep ST5-7 is a secondary coupon usage notification step. The secondary coupon usage notification step preferably includes displaying information indicating that the secondary coupon has been used on the display 23 of the consumer terminal 2.

[0161] 6(b), the transaction management device 6 stores in the memory device 65, in association with each other, secondary coupon identification information K-1 that identifies the secondary coupon, main coupon identification information J-1 that identifies the main coupon that is the basis for issuing the secondary coupon, and member identification information ("H001") that identifies the member who owns the main coupon. Therefore, based on the information stored in the memory device 65, the transaction management device 6 can identify the member who owns the main coupon that is the basis for issuing the secondary coupon, and can send a usage notification to the consumer terminal 2 of that member indicating that the secondary coupon has been used.

[0162] By executing the secondary coupon usage notification step, the first consumer can quickly learn that the secondary coupon he or she requested issuance has been used, even if the first consumer is not near the second consumer. This reduces the possibility of fraudulent use of the secondary coupon. The information indicating that the secondary coupon has been used may also include information identifying the store A2 where the secondary coupon was used. In this case, the first consumer can know the store A2 where the secondary coupon was used. If the second consumer is the first consumer's child, the child's location can be confirmed based on the information indicating that the secondary coupon has been used (for example, information identifying the store A2 where the secondary coupon was used).

[0163] In the example shown in Figure 2, the processor 27 of the consumer terminal 2 executes the program 91, causing the consumer terminal 2 to function as a usage notification receiving means 280. The usage notification receiving means 280 receives a usage notification indicating that the secondary coupon N has been used from the transaction management device 6 via the communication interface 24. The usage notification receiving means 280 also causes the display 23 to display the usage notification.

[0164] The usage notification receiving means 280 may receive information specifying the store where the secondary coupon was used from the transaction management device 6 via the communication interface 24. The usage notification receiving means 280 may also cause the display 23 to display information specifying the store where the secondary coupon was used.

[0165] 12, 14, and 31, the secondary coupon use processing step (fifth step ST5) is executed by the store scan method. Alternatively, the secondary coupon use processing step (fifth step ST5) may be executed by the user scan method. More specifically, if the second consumer is a member consumer and secondary coupon identification information K-1 that identifies the secondary coupon is stored in the second consumer terminal 41 of the second consumer, the secondary coupon use processing step can be executed by the user scan method.

[0166] (First example of a sub-coupon unused amount recovery process) In the sixth step ST6, the unused amount of the secondary coupon is collected. The sixth step ST6 is a secondary coupon unused amount collection process. As shown in FIG. 32, the secondary coupon unused amount collection process includes multiple sub-steps (ST6-1 to ST6-5).

[0167] As illustrated in Figure 32, in substep ST6-1, a login process to a members-only website managed by the website management device 7 is executed using the consumer terminal 2. Substep ST6-1 is a login process step. The login process step may be executed by inputting a login ID and password into a login information input form on the website (see Figure 17 if necessary), or may be executed automatically by launching a dedicated app on the consumer terminal 2.

[0168] If the first consumer has already logged in to the members-only website, sub-step ST6-1 is omitted.

[0169] As illustrated in Figure 32, in substep ST6-2, a selection process for a secondary coupon to be subject to unused amount recovery is executed using the consumer terminal 2. Substep ST6-2 is a secondary coupon selection process step. The secondary coupon selection process step is executed, for example, by using the user interface 21 to select a secondary coupon to be subject to unused amount recovery from among multiple secondary coupons displayed on the display 23 of the consumer terminal 2 (note that if only one secondary coupon has been issued, substep ST6-2 may be omitted). Figure 33 shows the state after the secondary coupon selection process step has been executed.

[0170] 32, in substep ST6-3, unused amount recovery request information including (1) secondary coupon identification information K-1 that identifies the secondary coupon to be recovered, and (2) a request RE to suspend use of the secondary coupon, is transmitted from the consumer terminal 2 to the transaction management device 6. Substep ST6-3 is an unused amount recovery request information transmission step.

[0171] 2, the processor 27 of the consumer terminal 2 executes the program 91 to cause the consumer terminal 2 to function as a collection request means 275. The collection request means 275 transmits to the transaction management device 6 unused amount collection request information including (1) secondary coupon identification information K-1 that identifies the secondary coupon that is the subject of unused amount collection, and (2) a request RE to suspend use of the secondary coupon.

[0172] 32, in substep ST6-4, the processing device 63 of the transaction management device 6 executes unused amount recovery processing based on the above-mentioned unused amount recovery request information received from the consumer terminal 2. Substep ST6-4 is an unused amount recovery processing step.

[0173] In the unused amount recovery processing step, the processing device 63 of the transaction management device 6 increases the balance of the main coupon that was the basis for issuing the secondary coupon by an amount corresponding to the unused amount of the secondary coupon, based on the secondary coupon identification information K-1 received from the consumer terminal 2 and the request RE to suspend use of the secondary coupon (see Figure 6(c)). In this way, the unused amount of the secondary coupon is recovered. Furthermore, based on the secondary coupon identification information K-1 received from the consumer terminal 2 and the request RE to suspend use of the secondary coupon, the processing device 63 of the transaction management device 6 changes the balance of the secondary coupon to zero (see Figure 6(c)), and prohibits use of the secondary coupon.

[0174] 6(b), the transaction management device 6 stores in the memory device 65 (1) main coupon identification information J-1 that identifies the main coupon that is the basis for issuing the secondary coupon, (2) the balance of the main coupon, (3) secondary coupon identification information K-1 that identifies the secondary coupon, and (4) the balance of the secondary coupon, in association with each other. Therefore, the processing device 63 of the transaction management device 6 can easily execute a process to increase the balance of the main coupon that is the basis for issuing the secondary coupon by an amount corresponding to the unused amount of the secondary coupon.

[0175] As illustrated in Figure 32, in substep ST6-5, the transaction management device 6 sends a notification of completion of the collection process of the unused amount of the secondary coupon to the consumer terminal 2. Substep ST6-5 is a collection process completion notification step. The collection process completion notification step preferably includes displaying information on the display 23 of the consumer terminal 2 indicating that the collection process of the unused amount of the secondary coupon has been completed.

[0176] In the example shown in Figure 34, the information indicating that the recovery process for the unused amount of the secondary coupon has been completed includes information indicating that the use of the secondary coupon has been stopped, information indicating the name E1 of the main coupon that was the basis for issuing the secondary coupon, and the balance E2 of the main coupon.

[0177] (Second example of the process for recovering unused amounts of sub-coupons) In the sixth step ST6', the unused amount of the secondary coupon is collected. The sixth step ST6' is a secondary coupon unused amount collection process. As shown in Figure 35, the secondary coupon unused amount collection process includes multiple sub-steps (ST6'-1 to ST6'-3).

[0178] As illustrated in FIG. 35, in substep ST6'-1, the processing device 63 of the transaction management device 6 determines whether the expiration date of the secondary coupon has passed based on the secondary coupon identification information K-1 stored in the storage device 65 and the expiration date information R of the secondary coupon identified by the secondary coupon identification information K-1 (see FIG. 6(b)). If the expiration date has passed, proceed to substep ST6'-2. On the other hand, if the expiration date has not passed, return to substep ST6'-1. The expiration date information R of the secondary coupon is information that the transaction management device 6 has previously acquired from the consumer terminal 2 (see, for example, substep ST3-5 in FIG. 29). It is preferable that the expiration date of the secondary coupon indicated by the expiration date information R of the secondary coupon can be set regardless of whether or not the expiration date of the main coupon that served as the basis for issuing the secondary coupon has passed. Furthermore, if the expiration date of the main coupon that served as the basis for issuing the secondary coupon is set, it is preferable that the expiration date of the secondary coupon can be set to a date and time before the expiration date of the main coupon.

[0179] 35, in substep ST6'-2, the processing device 63 of the transaction management device 6 executes unused amount recovery processing. Substep ST6'-2 is an unused amount recovery processing step.

[0180] In the unused amount recovery process, the processing device 63 of the transaction management device 6 increases the balance of the main coupon that was the basis for issuing a secondary coupon whose expiration date has passed by an amount corresponding to the unused amount of the secondary coupon (see Figure 6(c)). In this way, the unused amount of the secondary coupon is recovered. The processing device 63 of the transaction management device 6 also changes the balance of the secondary coupon whose expiration date has passed to zero (see Figure 6(c)), prohibiting the use of the secondary coupon.

[0181] 6(b), the transaction management device 6 stores in the memory device 65 (1) main coupon identification information J-1 that identifies the main coupon that is the basis for issuing the secondary coupon, (2) the balance of the main coupon, (3) secondary coupon identification information K-1 that identifies the issued secondary coupon, and (4) the balance of the secondary coupon, in association with each other. Therefore, the processing device 63 of the transaction management device 6 can easily execute a process to increase the balance of the main coupon that is the basis for issuing the secondary coupon by an amount corresponding to the unused amount of the secondary coupon.

[0182] 35, in substep ST6'-3, the transaction management device 6 transmits a notification of completion of the collection process of the unused amount of the secondary coupon to the consumer terminal 2. Substep ST6'-3 is a collection process completion notification step. The collection process completion notification step preferably includes displaying information on the display 23 of the consumer terminal 2 indicating that the collection process of the unused amount of the secondary coupon has been completed.

[0183] In the example shown in Figure 34, the information indicating that the recovery process for the unused amount of the secondary coupon has been completed includes information indicating that the use of the secondary coupon has been stopped, information indicating the name E1 of the main coupon that was the basis for issuing the secondary coupon, and the balance E2 of the main coupon.

[0184] In a second example of the secondary coupon unused amount recovery process, the unused amount is automatically recovered as the expiration date of the secondary coupon passes. Therefore, in the second example, the unused amount of the secondary coupon is reliably recovered. This prevents secondary coupons with non-zero balances from being left as they are.

[0185] In the above-described embodiment, each of the primary coupon and the secondary coupon may be a regional promotion coupon that can be used only in a specific area. More specifically, each of the primary coupon and the secondary coupon may be usable only in a specific area within Japan (e.g., a specific city, ward, town, or village, or a specific shopping district). Alternatively, or additionally, each of the primary coupon and the secondary coupon may be usable only to pay for specific products or services. For example, each of the primary coupon and the secondary coupon may be a coupon that can be applied to travel expenses, such as a "GO TO TRAVEL" coupon, or each of the primary coupon and the secondary coupon may be a coupon that can be applied to dining out expenses, such as a "GO TO EAT" coupon.

[0186] In the above-described embodiment, the transaction management device 6 can issue a secondary coupon (hereinafter referred to as a "child coupon" for convenience) based on the main coupon, but preferably cannot issue a further secondary coupon (hereinafter referred to as a "grandchild coupon" for convenience) based on the secondary coupon. By prohibiting the issuance of a grandchild coupon, it is possible to prevent a person who is unrelated to the first consumer and is therefore a stranger to the first consumer from using a coupon based on the main coupon.

[0187] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments or modifications, and it is clear that the embodiments or modifications may be appropriately modified or changed within the scope of the technical concept of the present invention. Furthermore, various techniques used in the embodiments or modifications may be applied to other modifications as long as no technical contradiction occurs. Furthermore, optional additional configurations in the embodiments or modifications may be omitted as appropriate. [Explanation of symbols]

[0188] 1: Commercial transaction support system 2: Consumer devices 2a: Mobile information terminal 2b: PC 5, 5a, 5b: Store terminal 6: Transaction management device 7: Website management device 11: Network 21: User Interface 21a: Input device 21b: Keyboard 23: Display 24: Communication interface 25: Storage device 27: Processor 29: Camera 41: Secondary consumer terminal 43: Display 46: Printer 47:Paper media 51, 51a, 51b: Scanner 63: Processing equipment 65: Storage device 91: Program 94: Data 271: First processing means 272: Second processing means 273: Request Method 274: Output means 275: Collection request method 276: Store identification information acquisition means 277: Amount information acquisition means 278: Third processing means 279: Subcoupon issuance request information acquisition means 280: Means of receiving notification of use 651: Store information database 651t: A table showing information stored in the store information database 653: Membership information database 653t: A table showing information stored in the member information database 655: Coupon information database 655t: A table showing information stored in the coupon information database A1, A2: Store BC1, BC2: 2D barcode E1: Name of the main coupon E2: Main coupon balance E3: Name of region where the main coupon can be used E4: Expiration date of the main coupon F1: Subcoupon name F2: Subcoupon balance J, J-1: Main coupon identification information K, K-1: Subcoupon identification information M: Main coupon N: Sub-coupon P-1:Amount information P-2:Second amount information Q: Change amount information R: Expiration date information RE: Request for suspension of use S, S-1, S-2: Store identification information T1: User scan method T2: Store scan method

Claims

1. A program executable by a consumer terminal of a consumer having a user interface, a display, a communication interface, and a storage device, The consumer terminal, a first processing means for displaying on the display information indicating a main coupon issued in association with the consumer; a second processing means for executing at least a part of a payment procedure for purchasing a product or receiving a service using the primary coupon; a request means for transmitting a request to a transaction management device to change at least some of the main coupons to sub-coupons that can be used by consumers other than the consumer; an output means for outputting secondary coupon identification information that identifies the secondary coupon; a collection request unit that requests the transaction management device to collect the unused amount of the sub-coupon; The withdrawal request means requests the transaction management device to increase the balance of the main coupon, which was the basis for issuing the secondary coupon, by an amount corresponding to the unused amount of the secondary coupon. program.

2. A program executable by a consumer terminal of a consumer having a user interface, a display, a communication interface, and a storage device, The consumer terminal, a first processing means for displaying on the display information indicating a main coupon issued in association with the consumer; a second processing means for executing at least a part of a payment procedure for purchasing a product or receiving a service using the primary coupon; a request means for transmitting a request to a transaction management device to change at least some of the main coupons to sub-coupons that can be used by consumers other than the consumer; an output means for outputting secondary coupon identification information that identifies the secondary coupon; a collection requesting means for requesting the transaction management device to collect the unused amount of the sub-coupon; It functions as The withdrawal request means is configured to request the transaction management device to automatically withdraw the unused amount when the expiration date of the secondary coupon has passed. program.

3. The second processing means Store identification information that identifies a store that provides the product or service; Amount information indicating the amount of the main coupon used; main coupon identification information that identifies the main coupon; and transmits the same to the transaction management device via the communication interface. The program according to claim 1 or 2.

4. The second processing means displays main coupon identification information that identifies the main coupon on the display in a format that can be read by the store terminal. The program according to claim 1 or 2.

5. The consumer terminal, a usage notification receiving means for receiving, via the communication interface from the transaction management device, a usage notification indicating that the secondary coupon has been used; 3. The program according to claim 1 or 2, for causing the program to function as:

6. The output means transmitting the secondary coupon identification information to a second consumer terminal, which is a terminal of the other consumer, via the communication interface; or The secondary coupon identification information is displayed on the display in a format readable by the second consumer terminal. The program according to claim 1 or 2.

7. The output means transmits a print command to a printer to print the sub-coupon identification information. The program according to claim 1 or 2.

8. Each of the main coupon and the sub-coupon is a regional promotion coupon that can be used only in a predetermined region. The program according to claim 1 or 2.

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