How To Use Pokémon Go To Encourage Business

How Small Businesses Can Leverage Pokémon Go to Boost Sales and Attract New Customers

Last week, we explored the origins and rise of 2016’s breakout app, Pokémon Go. Since its launch in early July, the game has become a global sensation, with recent reports showing over 75 million downloads, making it the most downloaded app in history across both iOS and Android platforms.

From a financial perspective, Pokémon Go has had a monumental impact, almost doubling Nintendo’s market value and positioning Apple to gain over $3 billion in additional revenue through in-app purchases.

The burning question for small business owners is: How can you capitalize on the game’s massive success? As a location-based game that uses real-world locations as interactive points, Pokémon Go offers local businesses an unprecedented opportunity to attract foot traffic and engage with new customers.

This week, we explore several ways SMEs can harness this cultural phenomenon to drive business growth and boost customer engagement.

1. Request a PokéStop

PokéStops are fixed points on the game’s map where players can collect items such as Poké Balls and potions. These spots are highly valuable to businesses looking to attract foot traffic, as players flock to PokéStops throughout the day.

If your business isn’t already a designated PokéStop, don’t worry—there may be one nearby. However, you can also submit a request to have a PokéStop added at your business location. Once verified, you can sweeten the deal by offering exclusive discounts to players who visit your store while collecting in-game items. This is a great way to convert foot traffic into paying customers.

2. Use Pokémon Lures to Attract Customers

Lure Modules are items that can be purchased in-game and placed at PokéStops to attract Pokémon to your location, drawing players to your business. A Lure lasts for 30 minutes, spawning new Pokémon every 2–3 minutes. For business owners, this is a powerful (and affordable) way to bring potential customers right to your door.

Here’s how you can maximize the impact:

• Host Pokémon Lure Parties: Announce on social media that you’ll be hosting a “Lure Party” at your business. Offer promotions like “Buy one, get one free” on drinks or food for Pokémon players. For example, a café could offer discounts on coffee and snacks, while a bar could create themed “Pokémon Cocktails” at special rates for players.
• Promote Your Event: Use social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter to promote your Pokémon-themed events and offer incentives for players to drop by during Lure activations.

Best of all, Lure Modules are inexpensive. A pack of eight Lures costs around $8 (€7.50), offering up to four hours of player engagement—a small investment considering the potential return in new customers and increased sales.

3. Create a Pokémon-Friendly Zone

Instead of turning players away, welcome them by creating a Pokémon-friendly zone. Encourage players to visit your business by offering perks like:

• Free WiFi: Pokémon Go requires data, so providing free WiFi will make your store more attractive to players.
• Charging Stations: Offer phone charging stations to keep players in your store longer.
• Special Discounts: Create exclusive offers or giveaways for Pokémon players.

Promote your Pokémon-friendly zone by putting up signs, using sandwich boards, and sharing updates on social media. These small gestures can turn your business into a go-to spot for Pokémon Go players.

Capitalizing on Pokémon Go for Marketing Success

As with any trend, there are some businesses that may resist or even ban players from entering their stores, seeing them as a distraction. Don’t be that business! Instead, embrace the craze and use it to your advantage by turning your location into a Pokémon haven.

By strategically using PokéStops, Lure Modules, and creating a player-friendly environment, small businesses can not only tap into Pokémon Go’s massive player base but also enhance customer engagement, increase foot traffic, and boost sales.

Want to incorporate Pokémon Go into your marketing strategy? Contact the experts at Matrix today, and let’s level up your business!