After reading this article which I had found on Digital Buzz Blog, I was quite amused but at the same time very impressed with the featured company’s promotion strategy.

Though I’m sure it’s not only Singaporeans who are shy when it comes to introducing themselves to new people, taking advantage of this “fear”, Harry’s Bar (located in Singapore) has managed to increase their sales by aiding their customers in this nerve-wracking process. They created an easy to use QR code app which enables the customers in the bar to anonymously chat “one on one” with each other … but they have to buy a couple of drinks first! There is a video on the website better explaining how the whole promotion works but for easier access I’ll post it for you here as well!

http://youtu.be/Dj_OC00qgUQ

This promotion is effective because it benefits both parties: customers do not have to worry themselves about how to begin chatting up a stranger (plus gals will get a free drink without having to awkwardly evaluate their suitor!) and Harry’s bar manages to save lost sales due to declined offers to be bought a drink or even a few steps before that in the case where someone decides against introducing themselves at all.  Not only that, Harry’s bar has probably increased the number of  loyal and return customers because of this service!

Ultimately, the bar’s promotion resulted in double the sales! Impressive!