Nowhere does hope spring more eternal than when it comes to the chance at winning a prize. Millions buy lottery tickets every day even though there are astronomical odds against hitting the jackpot. On a smaller scale, people opt for “mystery boxes” and grab bags in hopes of scoring a bargain or special deal.
To capitalize on this frenzy, the folks at the Cincinnati Zoo partnered with local Graeter’s ice cream to commemorate Fiona the Hippo’s fifth birthday by adding a surprise to their promotion. Graeter’s has emulated Willy Wonka’s five Golden Tickets and created a Fiona chocolate bar, also with a quintet of winning vouchers. Of the 7500 sold, only five will gift the recipient with a “Fiona kiss painting.” The quest is on to find one!
People really like the opportunity to be a winner. Is there a way you could add an element of suspense or chance to your offerings — either explicitly like Graeter’s or on a more subtle level that surprises people? Maybe you could recognize someone who turns out to be the XXth customer, celebrates a loyalty anniversary with you, or is able to draw a prize based on a level of purchasing? Without making a major investment, you can help people have the thrill of the hunt or experience the joy of winning just by holding a bit back for them to discover by surprise.
Thanks, Lucy!
And here’s another example shared after I posted this: Budweiser is hiding golden cans that make you eligible for a $1 million prize!