Adaptive Marketing Strategies for LBE

Melanie Wills, Managing Director, EMEA , 11.11.24

11.11.24 Melanie Wills, Managing Director, EMEA

The UK entertainment sector is vibrant yet highly susceptible to economic fluctuations that can quickly alter consumer behaviour and market conditions.

A recent Financial Times article highlighted challenges for location-based entertainment (LBE) businesses. These include their vulnerability to economic downturns and increasing market competition. Many companies are creating new entertainment options to appeal to younger consumers, who often prefer experiential activities when socializing. As a response, we at Allied Global Marketing have been pivoting strategies swiftly to navigate these waters successfully.

Dissecting the Consumer Behaviour in Economic & Social Shifts

Consumer spending on entertainment is often directly tied to their discretionary income and behavioural patterns, which fluctuates with the economic and social climate. Over half of businesses say that late-night footfall has declined, with the biggest decrease being after 10pm. We are constantly evaluating trends and patterns such as these so we can tailor our marketing strategies to resonate with shifting consumer priorities. Our diligence and optimisation ensure that our clients in the location-based entertainment sector continue to thrive.

Innovative Data-Driven Campaigns

We don't merely look at trends, our strategy also leans heavily on data. By harnessing sophisticated analytics, we decipher not just current consumer behaviours but also predict future behaviours. This forward-thinking method lets us advise our clients on how to tailor their offerings -- perhaps by emphasising value in tougher economic times, or by highlighting unique experiences when the consumer confidence index is high.

Flexible Marketing in Action: A Case Study from the UK

Allied has recently delivered a new marketing strategy for a long-standing location based entertainment venue in London. Tasked with driving new bookings and general awareness, we implemented several strategic changes. We created a wider suite of creative assets and shifted our media plan to a more targeted approach. Our messaging was designed to appeal to new audience segments and to promote a new range of occasions to enjoy the attraction. Additionally, we emphasized value for money to drive consideration in a hugely competitive market. This approach not only boosted attendance but also increased customer engagement across the paid media mix.

Conclusion

Current challenges in the LBE market, including economic uncertainties demand a dynamic and flexible marketing approach. At Allied Global Marketing, we are committed to leading from the front - utilising cutting-edge technology, embracing data-driven strategies, and continuously evolving with the market to secure the success of our clients in the entertainment sector.

For bespoke marketing solutions that can weather economic shifts and can capitalise on consumer trends, contact Allied Global Marketing today. Get in touch.

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