Building brand loyalty is a journey that starts in childhood and can last a lifetime. In fact, research shows that 90% of decisions for children’s products are influenced by kids themselves, highlighting the power of early brand exposure. As customers grow older, their loyalty evolves through different stages. Here's how brands can guide individuals from discovery to advocacy over the years:
1. Childhood (Discovery Phase)
Ages 3-12
In the early years, brand discovery often happens through parents, toys, and media. Brands capture young audiences with bright visuals, mascots, and interactive experiences. Kid-safe digital environments and mobile games provide a safe space for early brand interaction. In-game ads on platforms like Kidoz offer brands a chance to engage children in fun, memorable ways.
2. Tweens and Teens (Preference Formation Phase)
Ages 13-17
Peer influence and social media become dominant as teens shape their brand preferences. They look for brands that reflect their values and identity. Brands that offer authentic, interactive experiences, such as in-game ads or social media campaigns, are more likely to resonate. Gamified advertising, where users participate in challenges or rewards, fosters deeper engagement, helping solidify loyalty during this stage.
3. Young Adults (Engagement & Consideration Phase)
Ages 18-25
As young adults explore independence, they seek brands that offer personalization and convenience. This group is heavily influenced by personalized ads and experiential marketing. Brands can lock in loyalty by offering tailored experiences and using platforms like Kidoz’s in-game rewards and playable ads, which provide added value through interactive, engaging content.
4. Adults (Retention & Loyalty Phase)
Ages 26+
Adults prioritize brands that deliver consistency, trust, and long-term value. With convenience driving decisions, loyalty programs are a crucial component in retaining these customers, however casual gaming still plays a BIG role in adult brand engagement. In-game advertising through mobile apps remains an effective tool for sustaining connection, especially during downtime.
5. Older Adults (Advocacy Phase)
Ages 50+
For older adults, brand loyalty is built on long-standing trust and product reliability. This group often becomes brand advocates, passing on their preferences to younger generations. Referral programs and loyalty incentives can encourage them to actively promote their favorite brands to family and friends. This demographic tends to have more free-time than younger gens, and mobile is the most played platform in 50+ with over 60% playing games with an average of over 4+ hours weekly!
Reaching Customers Through Mobile Gaming and Kidoz's In-Game Ad Solution
Mobile gaming is now one of the fastest-growing sectors, with mobile gaming revenue projected to reach $3 trillion by the end of 2028. As more consumers turn to gaming for entertainment, brands can leverage this space to build and reinforce loyalty across all ages. Platforms like Kidoz’s in-game ad solution allow brands to deliver tailored, engaging content through curated experiences. Whether targeting young children or adults, in-game advertising offers a powerful way to create lasting impressions.
By utilizing Kidoz’s tools for safe, compliant compliant contextual ad placement, brands can ensure their message connects with audiences at every stage of their journey, helping build lifelong loyalty. Mobile gaming isn’t just about reaching new audiences: it’s about retaining them through interactive, memorable brand experiences.
Stacey McDowall
