How to level up your business with PokemonGo

It’s been mentioned more on Twitter than Brexit and this years Euros and is nearly as popular as Snapchat – Yes, we’re talking about the latest world craze, PokemonGo.

By now you’ve probably heard of, and perhaps even dabbled in the augmented-reality app that has taken the world by storm. If not, you’re probably about as rare as a Zapdos.

The geographically-based mobile app encourages players of all ages to get up and walk around in search of virtual creatures, helping gamers both socially and physically. But those aren’t the only benefits of PokemonGo.

Businesses all over the world are taking advantage of the game’s fixed locations in order to boost sales, promote their business and entice new customers and this is how they’re doing it…

Lure them in

Businesses can place a lure module onto the Pokestops (places players must go to pick up Pokeballs and potions) to attract wild Pokemon and more importantly players, to the location.

Our advice? Download the app, find out if your business is located near any Pokestops, and invest in some lure modules. Each module lasts 30 minutes so if you want to create a lure party, it’s best to buy a package.

The O2 Academy in Birmingham are just one example of how local businesses are capitalising the craze – launching their own lure party this Friday to attract wild Pokemon, and partygoers to the venue.

The weekly indie-rock event, Propaganda will be serving up special deals as part of the lure party, which isn’t a bad idea if you’re looking to rake in extra cash.

Reward players

It might not be your place to incentivise and reward players for their achievements and sponge of the back of Niantic’s success, but if there’s money to be made, what’s the harm?

Be it a shop, a restaurant, a hairdressers…whatever it is, if it’s near a Pokemon gym (where Pokemon tournaments take place), make the most of the influx of potential customers on your doorstep.

Advertise deals, discounts or rewards for the tournament winners, enticing them to stop at your business after defeating their opponents.

Get noticed

Social media is a business’s best friend, especially with the launch of global phenomenon PokemonGo. Offering customers a couple of pounds to share a screenshot of the exotic Pokemon roaming around your building will entice other players into your business, especially if there’s a Mew or two knocking about…