Intelligent CXO Issue 46 | Page 37

INDUSTRY UNLOCKED

How mobile apps are changing the game for fans

Mobile apps add so much to a sports fan ’ s enjoyment of the game , whether they are at home or in the stadium . Steve Tan , Vice President and General Manager EMEA / APAC at Airship , outlines how sports marketers can make the most of apps to nurture their loyal fans and turn casual supporters into loyal advocates .

Being a sports fan doesn ’ t stop when the game ends . Many supporters enjoy re-living the match highlights as much as watching live videos , and fans are part of a community when they ’ re able to continue celebrating ( or commiserating ) online after the final whistle .

Mobile apps have become a pivotal tool for keeping fans engaged with sports brands wherever they are . Why ? Mobile app usage is a sports fan ’ s most common activity when watching the big game ; according to Nielsen , already over a fourth of UK sports fans use apps to specifically follow their favourite team .
Sports marketers benefit from a mobile app ’ s ability to identify and nurture their Most Valuable Fans ( MVFs ). With advanced analytics and rich user profiles , apps allow teams and organisers to understand fan preferences deeply , deliver targeted offers , upsell and other valuedriven actions . This approach strengthens the connection between fans and brands , turning casual supporters into loyal advocates .
Real-time features , personalised engagement and behaviour-driven strategies are redefining fan experiences , ensuring that whether fans are in the stadium or at home , they ’ re always part of the action .
Keep consumers ’ heads in the game with mobile apps
The rise of mobile apps blurred the lines between in-venue and remote fan experiences to provide fans with the feeling that they ’ re connected to their team no matter where they are .
Pairing apps with mobile wallet elevates inperson experiences for sports enthusiasts . The NBA ’ s Phoenix Suns and official gaming partner , FanDuel , held special promotions for in-stadium www . intelligentcxo . com
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