Today, Groupon announced a new time-based deals option for all local businesses that accept reservations or take appointments, enabling them to control exactly when customers come into their business.

After a successful pilot with Rick Bayless’ Frontera Grill in Chicago and approximately 100 other food and beverage establishments, the platform is now available to all restaurants that accept reservations with plans to expand to other categories of merchants that take appointments.

“Offering this type of deal through Groupon is a fantastic way for even the busiest restaurants to diversify the ways in which they engage with customers and strengthen their brand,” says Rick Bayless, owner of Frontera Grill, Chicago. “They’re making it really easy for us to fill tables during off-peak times, which generates more revenue for the restaurant and gives us more opportunities to attract new customers and turn them into lifelong fans.”

Customers have the option to make a reservation or book an appointment via the Groupon mobile app or Groupon.com at the time of purchase or afterwards. Since the purchase is booked in advance for a specific time, there is no longer a need to present a mobile device or voucher when deals are redeemed.

“Groupon is making it easier for people to buy and book what they want, when they want it and also providing local businesses with an important yield management tool that drives additional revenue,” said Julie Szudarek, senior vice president, Local Deals. “Our new booking technology provides merchants even greater control over their deals to match the needs of their business and offers a tremendous customer experience. And as more and more businesses list their reservation and appointment inventory with us, it gives our customers another reason to always check Groupon first.”

Reservation and appointment deals will expand soon to other popular categories, including salons, spas, classes and activities.