Niantic, the ones behind Pokemon Go and Ingress, are utilizing the power of private interest in order to mutually benefit themselves while promoting businesses.
Two days ago, Sprint became the first official Pokémon Go United States partner.
https://twitter.com/sprint/status/806507956669992960
“we are thrilled to announce that we are working with Sprint to create a special Pokémon GO experience at over 10,500 Sprint locations around the United States. As part of this collaboration, Sprint, Boost Mobile and Sprint at Radioshack stores will become PokéStops and Gyms, giving you even more places to stock up on Poké Balls and Razz Berries and to battle your friends. Sprint locations will also feature in-store charging stations to keep your Pokémon GO sessions going even longer” John Hanke wrote on the Niantic website.
Businesses like McDonalds or Red Robin have been aware of Pokemon Go being a way to drive people to them. Turning your business spot into a “PokeStop” or “Gym” in the augmented reality game can increase foot traffic at your business.
On December 8, Starbucks turned 7,800 stores in the US into PokéStops or Gyms. Not only that, but they also created the “Pokémon GO Frappuccino®”
Their site describes it as “a Vanilla Bean Frappuccino® blended beverage and raspberry syrup blended with freeze-dried whole blackberries and topped with whipped cream. It’s the perfect treat for any Pokémon Trainer on the go.” The frappucinno is only available for a limited time.