- Portland, OR
A Case Study: How The Fields Bar and Grill Became Portland’s Go-To Trivia Night through Effective Promotion and Network Effects
- Sam Mahnke
Located in Portland, Oregon, The Fields Bar and Grill faced the challenge of attracting patrons on a typically quiet Tuesday night. Partnering with Last Call Trivia, the venue aimed to breathe life into its slowest night of the week.
The result was a resounding success, with trivia nights now drawing over 100 players weekly, showcasing the power of effective promotion and a well-executed event.
The Draw: Strategic Promotion and Word of Mouth
Under the leadership of owner Jim Rice, The Fields Bar and Grill, with support from Last Call Trivia, implemented various promotional strategies to boost awareness of their trivia nights.
A key element was the consistent use of an A-frame sign outside the venue reminding passersby of the event. “When we didn’t have the A-frame out, we didn’t have as much traffic. People would actually ask, ‘Are you still doing trivia night?'” Jim Rice noted, highlighting the sign’s importance in maintaining a steady flow of attendees.
Additionally, word of mouth proved to be a powerful tool. The bar attracted a specific demographic of early to mid-career professionals, including engineers and bankers, who found trivia nights a perfect midweek activity. Jim Rice explained, “We have people traveling across the city to participate,” demonstrating the wide appeal and strong following that had developed.
The key to a successful trivia night is properly promoting the event. Promotional materials like posters, signs, and table tents can help boost attendance. Word of mouth promotion is also a valuable tool for spreading awareness and creating excitement.
The Power of Network Effects and the "Curiosity Gap"
One of the unique aspects of The Fields’ trivia nights is how they fostered strategic team formations and uncommon friendships, driven by a competitive spirit and the desire to win. This phenomenon, referred to as the “curiosity gap,” is where individuals seek to fill knowledge gaps within their teams by recruiting members with complementary expertise.
Jim Rice observed, “We have one guy they call NASA Mike because he’s more of the engineering level person, and another lady known as the TV mom because she watches TV a lot. Teams form strategically to cover all types of trivia questions.”
This strategic team-building not only fueled a friendly competition but also created a social environment where people who might not usually interact came together. The shared goal of winning fostered bonds and camaraderie, making the trivia nights more than just a game—it became a social event where new friendships and connections were formed.
Beyond Trivia: Enhancing the Overall Experience
The Fields Bar and Grill didn’t just offer trivia; they created a comprehensive experience for patrons. By collaborating with distributors, the bar added value through free samples of new products during trivia nights.
“Distributors sometimes come in and help sell something. They might do free samples of a new product they’re rolling out,” Jim Rice explained. This approach not only introduced guests to new offerings but also enhanced the overall experience, making each trivia night a multifaceted event.
Partnering with distributers to offer exclusive new products or trivia night specials further enhances the experience for players, encouraging them to spread the word and keep coming back week after week.
Overcoming Challenges: The Role of Consistent Effort
Achieving this level of success required consistent effort and a strategic approach to promotion. Jim Rice emphasized the importance of ongoing promotion, stating, “You definitely need to be able to do some of your own promotions. It’s going to take a while to get it going.” The Fields Bar and Grill ensured that potential patrons were aware of the event through various channels, including social media and in-house signage.
The choice of host was also crucial. “Our host is incredibly important. Her energy level drives the crowd,” Jim Rice noted. The presence of a lively and engaging host ensured that trivia nights were not just about answering questions but also about enjoying a vibrant social event. The host’s ability to connect with the audience and maintain a fun atmosphere was key to the event’s success.
Pairing consistent event promotion with a great host will support ongoing success. These two elements will ensure people know about your trivia night and provide them with a great experience each time.
The Future: Exploring New Avenues
Looking forward, the venue is also exploring the potential of incorporating trivia into corporate buyouts, offering a unique and engaging activity for private events. “We did a trivia night for a company buyout, and it turned out phenomenally well. It would be a great way for businesses to add an interactive element to their events,” Jim Rice shared.
+20%
the last 3 months Tuesday net bar sales have been 20-25% higher than Wednesdays and Thursdays (comparable shifts).
Conclusion: A Blueprint for Success
The success of trivia nights at The Fields Bar and Grill illustrates the transformative power of effective promotion, strategic social dynamics, and the network effects that can turn a quiet night into a bustling success. By leveraging strategic promotion, maintaining consistent effort, and fostering a competitive yet inclusive environment, the bar has established a thriving weekly event.
The collaboration with Last Call Trivia has not only revitalized a slow night but has also become a highlight of the week, proving that with the right strategies and community engagement, any venue can become a top destination in the city.
Sam Mahnke
Client Success