Councillor Linda Scott has attempted to pass a motion in Sydney which would see the design and printing of Pokémon Go Welcome Signs for distribution across the city.

Speaking to Australian Printer, Scott says the current craze for the virtual reality game which entices users outdoors in order to catch and collect Pokémon creatures could be a boon for local business.

“Signage is important to communicate messages,” Scott says. “I think a positive way we could support business is to have signage to make it clear to Pokémon Go players that they support people playing.” 

Scott believes businesses which welcome players would see an increase in customers through their door.    

However not all businesses are on board with the plan. Stadium Signs director Pamela Hammond has labelled the motion ‘insane’ and believes the signage will not support local business or the industry.

Hammond says, “I think I would be quite concerned if a car pulled up outside my business and people jumped out and started playing Pokémon Go.

“Our business is based on referral so we do not do any advertising, our customers are brought to us by our reputation,” she continues, “And not by a lot of geeks running around playing Pokémon.”

The council has since denied Scott’s motion and says the city should celebrate the effects of Pokémon Go – which has brought more foot traffic around the city – without implementing signage.

The setback has not stopped Scott, who says, “I am sad that the Lord Mayor of Sydney has sought to defeat this but I am very committed to a fun city for the future, so I am still campaigning to see it happen.” 

Comment below to have your say on this story.

If you have a news story or tip-off, get in touch at editorial@sprinter.com.au.  

Sign up to the Sprinter newsletter