Placecast proudly announces a new, six-part consumer research study called “The Alert Shopper”. It’s our expectation that The Alert Shopper will pioneer research in retail as it relates to understanding the role of the mobile device in commerce, mobile advertising and coupons. There’s been a lot of talk and hype about location-based services but it’s time to hear from real people on how mobile devices can improve their shopping experience.

The Alert Shopper is a series of both in-person and third-party research in conjunction with Harris Interactive on consumer shopping habits and interest around the use of mobile devices and alerts when shopping.

Over the next few months you will meet several consumers including Joni, a 46-year-old mother who talks to us about her dependence on her cell phone and her way of being a savvy shopper. Lauren, a 22-year old Twitter user would appreciate receiving alerts on her phone if there’s a sale in the area. You will meet Joseph, a 31-year-old early adopter, who shares how he looks for sales and what Levi’s can do to improve his experience.  Rashane is the quintessential teen – an avid shopper who always has her phone on her. And you will meet Travis, a tech-savvy, careful shopper who researches products extensively online before shopping. These people and others offer unique insights into the mobile usage patterns of today’s American consumers.

Here’s a little teaser on what’s to come.

The Alert Shopper will cover trends as they relate to mult-location retail outlets like Target, Walmart, Kroger, Safeway, Best Buy, Kohl’s, Home Depot, Walgreens, Lowes, CVS, Sears, SuperValu, Rite Aid, Macy’s, Publix, JC Penney, GAP, Meijer, Staples, Toys ‘R’ Us, Office Depot, Nordstrom, Whole Foods, Menards, Dillard’s, Giant Eagle, Auto Zone, PetSmart, Neiman Marcus, The Shack, Sheetz, Starbucks, and Dick’s – to restaurants like Sonic, Applebee’s, Chili’s Olive Garden, Red Lobster, Friday’s, Burger King, McDonald’s, Jack in the Box, KFC, Taco Bell, Pizza Hut, Subway, Wendy’s, Outback, Arby’s, Chick-Fil-A, Quiznos and The Cheesecake Factory .

Also we take at look at specialty stores such as REI, American Eagle, Pottery Barn, Williams Sonoma, Crate & Barrel, Children’s Place, Brooks Brothers, Coach and Chanel.