If you haven’t heard of Pokémon Go yet, you’re likely living under a rock. This new app has only been out about a week now and it is already about to pass Twitter for average daily active users. For those who don’t know, this app allows users to walk around in the real world looking for virtual characters. You can use your camera in an ‘augmented reality’ feature to show these little creatures in the real world.
So, what does this have to do with marketing?
Well, there are a lot of great opportunities for marketers and brands who want to drive real world traffic using this app. First, if your business is lucky enough to have a ‘PokeStop’ on or near it, you will undoubtedly get a steady stream of new foot traffic walking by. Some simple signs or other items can encourage them to come in and start spending money.
You can even use ‘lures’ to attract more Pokémon to the area (which will, in turn, attracts real people). The lures last a half hour at a time, which makes them great for attracting customers during your ‘off’ hours where your business is normally slow.
When it comes to online marketing, you can publish to your website or social media pages information about what Pokémon you’re seeing in the area, offer discounts for certain ‘teams’ at certain times. Getting creative to help incentivize these Pokémon trainers is going to be key, but it can definitely pay off.
Many of these people are getting out into areas that they aren’t normally in to track down Pokémon, so bringing them into your business may be an excellent way to develop new customers.
Also, don’t think that this is just a game that children are playing. Adults who grew up with Pokémon are in their 20’s and 30’s now, making them ideal customers.
