A Luverne man has started a new business that will offer citizens a discount at area restaurants.

Rock Mann has experience in the restaurant industry, and that led him to a partnership with Troy’s WTBF radio station.

“I think a lot of people from this area go over to Troy on Friday and Saturday nights to eat out,” Mann said. “We thought this would be an awesome opportunity.”

Mann and WTBF have set up a website that allows people to purchase special certificates for half-price dining at area restaurants or other special deals at other businesses.

“I call it a good, old-fashioned barter,” he said.

Mann approached WTBF with a proposal, and the radio station offers reduced-price advertising in exchange for the certificates.

Mann said it’s an effort to keep business local, especially in tough economic times.

“I feel like there’s a real disconnect, and it’s a real challenging time for restaurants with food costs going up, and people not eating out,” he said.

“When business is slow, that’s when you need to advertise the most,” Mann added.

Mann said that he is also looking at expanding into the Luverne area, and is in talks with restaurants like Fish Tales.

“I’m just sticking my foot in the water,” he said. “Would I like to expand? Sure.”

For more information, visit http://wtbf.com/deals.html or call WTBF at (334) 566-0300.