No, not all start as light novels. In many cases the light novels come afterwards as a way to capitalise (eg Demon Slayer, the manga finished a while ago, so while the anime is still running light novels are coming out).
Apothecary Diaries started as a light novel, but JJK, AoT and many others start as Manga
But did you really scan the items they wanted? Most people in my local community scan their hands or the pavements around the pokestop.
They have a great map of London pavements if they want to do it.
Apothecary Diaries started as a light novel, but JJK, AoT and many others start as Manga