Goal 2026: The Business Playbook

Market Smart (Stay Compliant, Stay Visible)

 

When the 2026 global tournament arrives, the businesses that "win" won’t necessarily be the fanciest—they will be the ones that are the easiest to find and the easiest to choose.

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The Goal: Get "Search-Ready" in 30 Minutes

Most customers check three specific things before they decide to pull into your parking lot:

• Hours: Are you open right now?

• Photos: Does this look legitimate, clean, and inviting?

• Reviews: Can I trust this business with my time and money?

 

If any of these are missing or outdated, potential customers will move on to your competitor in seconds.

 

Phase 1: Your Digital Presence (The Essentials)

• Audit Your Google Business Profile

  • Verify the Basics: Confirm your address, phone number, and website are 100% accurate.

  • Update Your Hours: Set your "Special Hours" for the June/July tournament window.

  • Category: Ensure your primary category is specific (e.g., "Authentic Italian Restaurant" vs. just "Restaurant").

  • Fresh Visuals: Add a photo of your storefront from the street and a shot of your parking area so first-timers feel confident before they arrive.

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"Visitor-Proof" Your Information

• Make it simple for a new customer to understand your business in under 10 seconds:

  • What do you offer? (Clear services/products)

  • How does it work? (Walk-ins, appointments, or counter service?)

  • The "Must-Have": Highlight your best-seller or signature service.

  • Easy Win: Add a "First Time Here?" or "What to Expect" FAQ to your website or a pinned social post.

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Power Up Your Reviews

• Ask: Ask three happy customers for a Google review this week.

• Respond: Reply to reviews with warmth and specifics (e.g., "Thanks for mentioning our brisket—we're glad you enjoyed it!").

 

Phase 2: Official Listings & Local Apps

• Official KC2026 Host City App

The KC2026 digital journey planner is the "front door" for the tournament, living inside the primary FIFA World Cup™ app. Fans will use this to find local dining, visitor resources, and Smithville listings.

• How to Get Listed (Missouri Locations):

  • Check Existing Listing: Check HERE

  • Update a Listing: Submit this Form

  • Request a New Listing: Submit this Form

  • Note: Portals take 5–7 business days for access and approval.

 

• Parade of Hearts App

This exhibit is a major local draw. The app allows the public to see businesses nearby each heart statue via a code.

• The Action: Submit your "One Offer" via the Go North KC Promotions Form.

• Note: One offer per month per business. Approved offers appear under the "Go North KC" page.

 

Phase 3: The "One Offer" Marketing Strategy

You don’t need a massive campaign. You need one offer that is easy to explain in one sentence, easy to deliver, and easy for a visitor to say "yes" to.

• Tie into Watch Parties: Offer "Watch Party Specials" or "Family Game-Day Packs."

• 10 Visitor-Ready Ideas:

  • Food: "Quick Bite Combo" or "Late-Night Grab & Go."

  • Retail: "Road Trip Essentials" shelf or a "Smithville Host Gift" bundle.

  • Services: "Tournament Week Tune-Ups" or "Same-Day Ready" slots.

  • Everyone: A "Local Favorites" spotlight or a "Visitor Welcome" QR code at your counter.

 

Legal Compliance & Brand Safety
Smithville businesses should market around the spirit of the season to stay clear of trademark issues.

• Safe Phrases: "Summer Soccer," "Global Tournament," "Welcome the World," "The Beautiful Game," "2026 Games."

• Avoid: Using official tournament logos, slogans, team crests, or hashtags in your advertising.

• Pro-Tip: Decorate with generic soccer balls and local Smithville pride. Focus on your food, service, and hospitality.

 

💡 The "Long Play": Three of the teams basing their operations in the KC metro are top contenders. If they advance, fans and media will remain in our region well beyond the final KC match on July 11. Plan for a full season: June 11 – July 19.

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A Global "Thank You"

Smithville is just a short drive from the base camps of Argentina, the Netherlands, England, and Algeria. Here is how to say “Thank You” to our international guests:

• Argentina (Spanish): ¡Gracias!

• Netherlands (Dutch): Dank je wel!

• England (English): Thank you!

• Algeria (Arabic/French): شكراً (Shukran) / Merci!

 

One Action to Take Today:

Pick ONE offer and write it as a one-sentence sign.

• Example: “Summer Soccer Specials — Proud to Welcome the World to Smithville.”

• Post it once online and once in your business. Then, Submit your offer to the Parade of Hearts app here. Done.