SCDF launches mobile app for iOS and Android devices
The St. Maarten Carnival Development Foundation (SCDF) on Wednesday launched its mobile Carnival application or “app” for Android and iOs devices and smart phones. The launch of the app is part of the foundation’s ongoing efforts to expand Carnival’s reach worldwide. It follows the launch of the foundation’s brand new website (www.sxm-carnival.com) as well as a brand new promo video for Carnival, the first of many to come.
The promo video alone, launched only a few days ago, has been shared more than 700 times on Facebook and have reached more than 60,000 people all over the world, with just over 15,000 views. The foundation’s Facebook page remains its main online portal with more than 14, 000 likes. With the addition of the brand new app, along with traditional marketing efforts, the SCDF said it’s on track with the execution of its marketing initiatives.
The new website, promo video and app were all projects under the supervision of SCDF board member and PR Officer Alston Lourens. In terms of the app, Lourens executed this project himself for St. Maarten Carnival.
“The app allows us a connection to the carnival lovers all over the world like never before. We can send direct announcements, show times and information will be regularly updated, we will build relationships, increase visibility, increase accessibility, increase exposure across mobile devices, and enhance our social networking strategies,” Lourens said.
He continued. “It’s all part of Carnivals attempt to market the biggest event on the island the way it should be done and remain competitive in the Carnival tourism market, even with a lack of marketing funding. More and more festivals are following the mobile trend, understanding that an effective mobile strategy involves more than just a mobile-friendly website. We look forward to co-marketing with carnival's stakeholders. “
Downloads of the app remained constant throughout the day on Wednesday after the foundation made the announcement via Facebook.
