Business Tips: Utilising Pokemon GO

Pokémon GO is taking the world by storm, after just two days of being released the mobile game for Android and IOS added $7.5 billion to IP owners Nintendo stock values. The geocaching app has players, or trainers, walking around the real world to collect Pokémon. There are hundreds of stories emerging as people try to catch ‘em all, from falling into ditches to one girl finding a body in a lake.

A series of savvy Entrepreneurs are taking advantage of the latest craze like a woman who goes by the name of Ivy St Ive, who recently posted an advert to craigslist offering her services as a ‘Pokémon Trainer’ for a flat fee of $20 per hour, or the entrepreneurial team who have created a ride app where you can be escorted around the games popular locations, for a fee, of course.

Being able to create a start-up is great, but what if you are a static business, such as a retailer, coffee house or service supplier? Here are some ways you can capitalise on Pokémon GO.

Lure them in

The game features in-app purchases which give you something called a ‘Lure’, these virtual ‘Lures’ increase that chances of Pokémon appearing in that area. Retailers in the states have begun buying ‘lures’ and using them to lure customers to your place of business in search of Pokémon

Advertising your Pokémon

If you are already in a place where Pokémon appear, advertise it. Tell people on social media that you have a Pikachu lurking among your greatest products and best deals. You will get more footfall in your establishment and that will convert to sales.

PokéStop

If you are near a Pokémon Gym or PokéStop, make the most of it. You can use your location to your advantage by offering special deals to Pokémon players, perhaps rename a product, 10% off a Pokéspresso or Pokéchino anyone? This could help create trust, community and all without cutting into your bottom line.

Whether Pokémon GO is a just another fad is yet to be seen, but why not get involved and use it to boost your businesses presence and profit, two things which are never a flash in the pan.