How local restaurants can market using Pokemon Go

Businesses all over Canada are taking advantage of the Pokemon GO game and using it in marketing campaigns and promotions.

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In a blog post on Restaurants Canada, reposted from the website Avid Creative, graphic designer Ashley Howell shares her tips on how restaurants can take part in the trend.

1. Play the game

"Yes, this means you have to download the app and actually play but this can bring in some great business," Howell writes. "It's like you're playing a game and advertising at the same time."

2. Name the dish of the week after a Pokemon

On P.E.I., that could mean adding the name of your favourite Pokemon to your most popular seafood dish. Or you could create a new dish around the theme.

"People love this stuff!" Howell writes. "Or, even better, make the items look like Pokemon balls or monsters."

3. Create a special offer

Get Pokemon GO customers in the restaurant with a special offer or a discount if they locate a Pokemon in your restaurant.

"The odds of finding a unique Pokemon are random so it may be hard to measure and a bit of a risk, but if they are 'unique' they may not pop up as often as the others," Howell writes. "Sayin the fine print that they must be a customer, to avoidgiving away free food to non-customers."

4. Advertise through social media

A way to get Pokemon GO customers to your restaurant is to post your Pokemon sightings on Facebook and Twitter.

"Even havesomeone dress up as a Pokemon in your restaurant. It's abit silly but, depending on your restaurant and your brand, it might just work."

5. Be in the know

Ensure you know what other businesses are doing with the Pokemon GO game craze and take advantage of it.

"Some crazy events are being hosted around the Pokemon craze, includingPokemon pub crawls," Howell says. "Just be ready if your pub is in line with one of the events. Don't be stuck short-staffed!"

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