Forrester Research recently released a report,
Location-Based Social Networks: A Hint Of Mobile Engagement Emerges, that noted there were only a few million consumers using geolocation apps on a monthly basis. Location-based Social Networks include such sites like Foursquare, Gowalla, BrightKite, and Dopplr. The report states that only 4% of adults have used a location-based social network and only 1% haved used it more then once.
The profile of a location-based social network users:
- Male
- 19-35 years of age
- College educated
- $105,000 household income
- Performs mobile-based web research
Advertisers have started to test this new technology channel to reach customers, but Forrester says that it is too early and recommends that male-targeted marketers test this platform. Such companies as Starbucks, Bravo TV, Golden Coral, and the New Jersey Nets have already tested location-based social network marketing.