Recently, Pokemon GO has been filled with events and research for the holidays, even though many weren’t happy with the November Field Research breakthrough reward. Though Niantic has partnered with several locations in the past, the new corporate partnership between Niantic and Circle K will have trainers earning real-world rewards by using the Pokemon GO app. This is the first time fans have found themselves earning real-world coupons and discounts at a location that serves as a Pokemon hotspot.
Fans have speculated about the new additions Niantic will bring to Pokemon GO, including which Pokemon will be added, as several are still missing. Instead of adding a bunch of new Pokemon, the company is partnering up to offer real discounts and coupons. Company partnerships aren’t new for Pokemon GO. Since the launch, Niantic has partnered with big names to create a plethora of Gyms and PokeStops for trainers and create new incentives to continue playing the game. At the same time, companies get to offer themed products or services to their Pokemon GO customers. This includes places like Starbucks, which had a Pokemon-themed frappe, and mobile customers for Verizon were given unique in-game gifts for having the service. However, the new partnership with Circle K is offering coupons for a store for the first time.
Niantic has been offering some fantastic in-game items such as free shirts in the Pokemon Store to celebrate various events, like the Festival of Light in Pokemon GO. However, they are now looking to offer tangible rewards. Pokemon GO fans were notified yesterday of the partnership with Circle K that will offer them discounts and coupons for the store when they access the PokeStops and have the store app on their phone. These Circle K discounts could be used on items such as coffee, gummy bears, hot dogs, K Freeze drinks, and more. There will be a variety of discounts added each month with the 12-month partnership between the two companies. Though the exact financial details are unknown, Niantic has previously mentioned there is value in each spin at a sponsored PokeStop.
Many on Reddit worldwide have mentioned this is live in their areas, including the United States, Ireland, Poland, and Canada. With this partnership, some wonder how many other companies will become Gyms and PokeStops with a similar real-world reward system for playing the game. With the upcoming maintenance for Pokemon GO that may cause gameplay disruptions, fans will want to check out their local Circle K store to start earning rewards sooner than later.
Pokemon GO is out now on Android and iOS devices.
Source: Reddit