It is now 3 months later and I haven't heard anything. So earlier this week I sent a follow-up asking for an update on their decision. This was the response:
So I sent this reply:Thank you for taking the time to reach out to us.
We understand that this is a sensitive topic, and that some of our customers may not agree with our choice to pause the promotion of firearm-related deals. Groupon has always aimed to offer a diverse range of products and services to meet the various tastes and interests of our subscribers. However, at this time, enough customers and merchants have voiced their opinions that we believe a hiatus is warranted.
Please note that we have never sold guns, and Groupons you've already purchased are still valid. This hiatus only applies to firearm-related deals including shooting ranges, clay pigeon shooting, and concealed weapons training classes. We have not made a final determination regarding this category -- we are simply taking a break and may reevaluate in the future.
We genuinely appreciate your opinion and the feedback you've given us. I'll be sure to share your comments with the appropriate people.
Regards,
Miranda S
Groupon Customer Support
Thank you Miranda for the reply. It seems odd that after three months Groupon has still not made a final determination.
When I heard the news in January, I had decided to wait to take any action pending a final decision from Groupon. I did not want to react immediately so instead chose to simply communicate my concerns to Groupon and give the company time to formulate a well considered policy. Three months should be enough time for an entity to collect the necessary data and make a decision.
As there is no solid indication that this decision will be coming in the short term, I guess the most appropriate response from my end will be to cancel my account immediately. If I hear reports in the future that Groupon has reconsidered and decided to allow offers of legal products and services from legitimate businesses involving this category of activities otherwise protected by the United States Constitution; I will re-evaluate and possibly sign up for Groupon services at that time. In others words, I am "simply taking a break and may reevaluate in the future".
After send this email, I will cancel my Groupon account and create one at LivingSocial.
Sincerely,