Tokens & Tankards: A Digitally-Integrated Nerd Haven
Hypothesis 1: The segments of the Gen X cohort who are arcade fans are also likely to enjoy tabletop games, while tabletop gamers are likely to enjoy arcade games. Combining elements appealing to both of these segments into a singular entertainment experience with solid food and beverage programs, will generate a loyal fan base. This loyal fan base will visit frequently and share this unique experience with others, organically growing the customer base and revenue over time.
Hypothesis 2: A small restaurant can integrate their POS, merchant card processing and in-venue digital social entertainment (e.g. jukebox and arcade high score leaderboard) data to create a singular customer dataset to market to. This dataset can then be targeted via email and geotargeted social + SEM to enable greater scale and marketing efficacy, even on the shoestring budget of an independent restaurant.
Description
The notion of a nerd sanctuary that brought together a range of rad 80's gaming into a singular concept, powered by an authentic and passionate staff, was something I came up with one day after visiting HQ Beercade. Sure, the games at these arcade bars were fun and there was a decent vibe, but there wasn't a theme that brought it all together. And there was little to encourage long-form entertainment. Tokens & Tankards stepped in to fill these gaps, tied together with branding that nodded strongly to Dungeons & Dragons, Conan the Barbarian and the high fantasy of the late 70's and 80's. The customers who "got it", loved us. And even those who didn't, often discovered a newfound appreciation for arcade and/or tabletop gaming.