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Fans lined up along a tree-lined Chicago sidewalk for the PPULBATU pop-up, with staff checking them in on a tablet

Case studies · Events

NextMe Helps Popular KPOP Brand Blend Art, Retail, and Fandom

KPOPMERCH, a leading provider of exclusive merchandise for KPOP fans, collaborated with NextMe to enhance their latest pop-up event experience. PPULBATU, a TXT (Tomorrow X Together) character pop-up event in East Lakeview, Chicago, blended art, retail, and fandom to create a unique and interactive experience. Fans enjoyed photo opportunities, limited-edition merchandise, and activities designed to foster a closer connection to the group.

The challenge

  • Long lines. The high demand for PPULBATU’s exclusive experiences led to long queues, creating frustration for attendees and potential loss of business for nearby retailers.
  • Inefficient wait time management. KPOPMERCH struggled to accurately manage wait times and provide attendees with real-time updates about their position in line.
  • Missed opportunities for engagement. While waiting, fans lacked opportunities to engage with the local community, missing out on nearby retail promotions and experiences.
The PPULBATU pop-up storefront in East Lakeview, Chicago, its windows decorated with TXT characters

The solution

  • Introduce QR codes for seamless self check-in. Attendees could easily scan a QR code to join the virtual waitlist, simplifying the check-in process and reducing manual errors.
  • Engage with fans through the virtual waiting room. Fans received real-time updates about their wait position and were exposed to promotions from local businesses, turning idle time into an opportunity to explore East Lakeview’s offerings.
  • Communicate with automated SMS notifications. Attendees were reminded of their check-in status and notified when it was their turn, enhancing the overall event experience and ensuring no one missed their slot.
The PPULBATU WARI WARI virtual waiting room showing a fan 7th in line, with an illustrated map of the neighborhood

The results

  • 300% increase in customer intake speed. Streamlined check-ins allowed KPOPMERCH to handle more attendees efficiently.
  • 2 hours saved per fan. Attendees spent less time standing in line and more time engaging with the event and the local community.
  • 28% increase in retail throughput. Faster and more organized wait management drove increased sales and event participation.

Ready to elevate your next pop-up experience?

NextMe specializes in helping experiential marketing agencies manage waitlists and enhance guest engagement. If you’re looking to turn waiting into an opportunity, contact us!