How Can Coffee Shops Increase App Downloads? Learn from Common Address and Others

TLDR

As a coffee shop owner, you must know that mobile app users spend 3 times more than any other channel. However, getting customers to download your app can be a challenge. Strategic in-store marketing is essential for promoting your app and encouraging downloads right at the point of sale. Carefully crafted signage, posters, table tents, packaging, and more can highlight your app's features and showcase its value. For instance, Common Address uses Instagram to demonstrate in-store app promotion strategies like featuring QR codes on menus and takeaway packaging. By implementing similar tactics, you can increase app downloads and ultimately boost sales through your digital platform. Thoughtful in-store marketing paired with a stellar mobile experience gives customers compelling reasons to use your app.

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Use In-Store Signage and Posters to Promote Your App

Eye-Catching Displays

In the crowded coffee shop environment, vibrant signage and displays can grab customers' attention. Large posters near the ordering counter or entrance promote your app. Use bold colors, catchy slogans, and QR codes for easy downloading. Showcase the app's benefits like mobile ordering, rewards, and exclusive deals.

Highlight Promotions

Entice new users with special app-only promotions advertised on table tents or window decals. Offer a free drink or pastry for first-time app users. Run limited-time discounts only available through the app to drive downloads.

Social Proof

Build trust by displaying customer reviews and testimonials about the app's convenience. Digital screens can cycle through positive feedback, while framed posters tell success stories. People are more likely to download an app endorsed by others.

Branding Everywhere

Reinforce your brand and app with printed materials like to-go bags, drink sleeves, and napkin holders. Add app QR codes or download instructions on all takeaway packaging. Branded merch like t-shirts and hats further spreads awareness.

In-Store Events

Host app download events with special giveaways or tutorials on using key features. Promote these through posters, social media, and email newsletters. Hands-on demos get people engaged and more likely to adopt the app.

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Table Tents, To-Go Menus & Packaging Are Great for App QR Codes

Grab Attention with Tabletop Displays

Strategically placing QR code displays on tabletops is an effective way to drive app downloads and orders. Table tents and sign stands are eye-catching yet unobtrusive. They provide an interactive menu experience that feels modern and user-friendly.

Common Address cafe does this well by using branded table tents showcasing their app's QR code. The simple design grabs attention without overwhelming guests. It creates an easy entry point for ordering through the app.

Promote on To-Go Packaging

Don't miss the opportunity to market your app on takeout and delivery items. Printing QR codes on to-go bags, boxes, and coffee cup sleeves is a low-cost way to reach a wide audience.

These portable branded pieces act as mobile billboards for your app. Customers see the QR code during their visit and can easily download and start using the app for future orders.

Customize QR Menu Signs

Static printed menus are becoming outdated. Personalized tabletop QR code menu signs let customers browse an easy-to-update digital menu using their smartphones. It streamlines the ordering process for dine-in guests.

These signs can be customized with your branding and menu layout. Consider adding calls-to-action like "Scan to view our full menu & order through our app!" to drive downloads. Simple but compelling designs stand out.

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Coffee Shop App Promotion Examples: Common Address & More

In-Store Tactics Drive Downloads

Coffee shops leverage various in-store tactics to drive app downloads and usage. From eye-catching signage to packaging integration, these strategies keep the app top-of-mind for customers. Common tactics include:

• Posters and decals promoting the app's features like mobile ordering, rewards, etc.
• Table tents or inserts highlighting a QR code to easily download the app.
• App branding on takeaway packaging like cups, bags, and boxes.
• Mentions on physical menus encouraging customers to "order ahead on our app!"

By immersing customers in the app experience, they're motivated to explore its convenience.

Highlighting App Benefits

Beyond ubiquitous promotion, coffee retailers spotlight the specific benefits customers gain by using their app. New York's Common Address does this well, showcasing mobile order pickup and unique rewards through postcards. Common Address also utilizes eye-catching outdoor signage to promote the app, encouraging customers to download and take advantage of the convenience it provides.

Integrated Loyalty Programs

Many coffee chains offer digital rewards programs exclusively through their app. Customers accrue points with each purchase, redeeming future freebies or discounts. This incentivizes downloading the app to start earning rewards.

Starbucks pioneered this with their popular app-based rewards system. Coffee Dose Cafe and popular NYC Think Coffee also provide points card to earn free drinks. Integrating loyalty programs encourages long-term app adoption among customers.

By leveraging enticing in-store promotions, benefit-focused messaging, and integrated rewards, coffee retailers are mastering app promotion. Customers gain convenience while businesses drive mobile orders and engagement.

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Final Thoughts

You now have a plethora of ideas to drive app downloads in your coffee shop. From prominent signage and table tents to QR codes on menus and packaging, small touches can make a big difference. Take inspiration from innovative brands like Common Address that use in-store marketing to full advantage. With smart, multi-channel promotion, you can turn casual customers into loyal app users. Reward their loyalty with app-exclusive deals, and watch your digital orders grow. Remember—the customer journey starts in your cafe. Guide it strategically toward your app at every step.

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