Firstly, a warm welcome to you, as the weather seems to have definitely turned as we approach the festive period. I hope this article shares a little bit about our commercial focus over the last few months, and the direction of travel as we look towards Christmas and beyond. We have seen the launch of our new range of kits from Umbro, including our colourful European shirt that really dials up our relationship with the regions community clubs, and seems to very much be a marmite shirt amongst our fanbase with a strong take up already. A bunch of new sponsors have joined the Ospreys which we have been announcing, and a number of loyal partners have extended with us; we appreciate their ongoing support to use us as a platform to grow their business.
We recently began our relationship with Swansea BID which will look to develop and connect over 800 local brands and businesses to Ospreys, whilst emphasising the importance we place on developing talent within our region and working in harmony with local business owners.
A key focus this year has been to step change our product in hospitality – and we have had some brilliant dialogue with the culinary teams in the stadium to do just that on the food front. Our Nest product has also been enhanced with live music every post game and ex pros joining us, such as Lloyd Ashley which has received positive feedback.
Upstairs in The Exec, our pitch facing lounge, we have moved to an indulgent hot and cold small bowls menu, which is refreshed each game. From bao buns and Thai curries through to monk fish and prawn cocktails, there is always something for everyone.
For the Scarlets game we are already approaching sell out in those two lounges, and only 2 boxes remain – so if you are planning to entertain friends, family or colleagues on boxing day make sure you move quickly.
Also, as we approach Christmas, you may wish to give your brand or business a push through the numerous channels here at the Ospreys; whether that’s through our LED platform of the most watched team in Welsh rugby, or through our social platforms, where we are the most followed team in Wales. We can create something bespoke for you, and tailor it through our shared value approach. Simply reach out to our Regional Commercial Manager Scott Otten, and he will happily create a package that works for your business. As we approach the derbies, and of course the European fixtures, we would encourage you to be part of our journey.
Finally, I would ask as many of you as possible to join us for the Leicester and Scarlets game. After the last few challenging years where we have not been able to get together in the festive period, the opportunity to reconnect, and take in this huge Welsh derby, full of internationals with a day full of activities on and off the pitch is not to be missed. Tickets are on sale, and like hospitality, we are seeing quite a take up already.
Anthony Cole-Johnson
Commercial Director