A time-saving and eco-friendly option for making running tracks that are showing their age as good as new again is to have the synthetic surface professionally re-topped. This entails laying a new wear layer on top of the existing installation – so there is no need to excavate and dispose of the old material.
In its portfolio, Polytan has two re-topping products that can be installed on any existing surface: Rekortan M RT, the water-impermeable system coated in situ, and Spurtan WS RT, the structural system that is permeable to water. One is a PUR coating with strewn EPDM granules, the other a spray coating.
Running tracks with elastic synthetic surfaces such as we know them today have been the only acceptable surface for athletics events at elite level since the Olympic Games in Mexico in 1968. The functional qualities they provide for sport, such as energy enhancement and shock absorbency, mean they are now part and parcel of modern sports facilities – whether the running tracks are for schoolchildren, amateur or professional athletes.
Intensity of use and type of system determine the useful life
The useful life of a synthetic surface generally varies between 10 and 30 years, depending on the intensity of use and the type of system that is in-stalled. In principle, a surface that is coated or poured in situ (also called a solid synthetic surface) is much more hard-wearing and long-lasting than a structured surface (sometimes referred to as a spray coating or spray surface).
Since spray coatings have a thinner wear layer than products poured or coated in situ, they wear out much sooner due to the effect of spikes, for instance. In addition to abrasion, the running tracks harden over time and become brittle – an ageing process of synthetic floors that occurs relatively quickly in the case of prefabricated strips. Polytan’s product range includes only synthetic surfaces that are installed in situ in liquid form, allowing them to be optimally adapted to the local circumstances.
The condition of the old surface is the decisive factor
Whether re-topping makes sense will depend on the condition of the existing running track. This is determined in a defined test procedure in which variables such as shock absorption and tensile strength are analysed alongside the evenness of the surface and the general condition of the substrate.
If the re-topped track is to be certified as meeting the requirements for inter-national competition laid down by the IAAF, the governing body of world athletics, the inspection is much more intensive than if the aim is merely to refresh the look of the track. For successful re-topping it is immaterial what method of construction was used for the initial installation, whether it was laid in situ or as prefabricated strips, or who the original manufacturer was: the cost of rehabilitation is determined only by its condition.
If the substrate is suitable for re-topping, the old surface is first cleaned thoroughly and any damaged areas are improved. The next stage is – if necessary – to adapt the existing sports equipment, such as the sandpit for the long jump, to the higher level of the future surface. The third and final stage is the actual re-topping process. This is when a new wear layer is laid seamlessly on the existing old surface, optionally as a PUR coating with strewn EPDM granules or as a spray coating. Once hardened, the rehabilitated running track can no longer be distinguished from a new installation.
The Rekortan M RT (PUR coating) and Spurtan WS RT (spray coating) re-topping systems from Polytan can be used on tracks that are permeable to water as well as those that are impermeable. Both rehabilitation solutions have structured surfaces, are suitable for spikes and therefore offer the optimum base for professional applications.
For more information visit www.polytan.de
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Eco-friendly rehabilitation of synthetic surfaces
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Events should be the centre of the Chinese sports industry
According to a report released by the Chinese National Sports Authority, China produced a total output of RMB 1.7tr (US$ 250bn) from its sports industry in the year 2015 alone.
As the report revealed, the result is mainly driven by manufacturing, sales, trading and rental of sports goods and related products, which accounts for 86.2% of the total. In other words, the sports-related goods industries are still the main sectors of the Chinese sports industry.
However, the nucleus of a sound sports industry should be its sports performance industry and not its sporting goods sector.
Deloitte found in 2015 that Dubai’s sporting industry was worth more than US$ 1.7bn, with investment in sporting events, sports venues and mass participation events accounting for US$ 709m of the city’s total gross events expenditure of US$ 1.14bn. In this regard, Dubai has a much healthier sports industry than China.
Then how can we change the status quo of the Chinese sports market?
Maybe we can start with the following aspects.
The Chinese Super League
The Chinese Super League (CSL), we can say, is the most popular and commercialised professional sports league in China. In recent years, powerful outfits such as Guangzhou Evergrande and Shanghai SIPG have become annual title favourites for the AFC Champions League.
More importantly, the arrival of international players like Tevez, Oscar, Hulk and Alex have enhanced the competitiveness and increased entertainment of Chinese clubs and fans as well as improving the international influence of the top-flight football league.
As such, the growth in attendance figures of the league have been remarkable. According to statistics released by CSL officials, the total stadium audience reached 5.8 million in 2016, averaging 24,159 for each game. At the same time, more than 284 million people watched the CSL on TV with the number of viewers streaming online increasing sharply. As of now, the football league is being broadcast in 96 countries and regions around the world.
The league has also been monetising its commercial value through sponsorships and partnerships. In May, the CSL Company sealed a five-year title sponsor-extension with the Chinese insurance firm Ping’an Group, which will see the firm pay RMB 1 bn to continue its title sponsorship through to 2022.
Meanwhile, the CSL has also signed up as partners with China Sports Media (CSM) in a five-year broadcast rights deal, worth RMB 8bn. Despite LeSports relinquishing its broadcast rights due to financial burdens, the new media rights for the 2017 CSL season were acquired by the Suning-backed PPTV Sports.
However, two new policies, recently introduced by the Chinese Football Association (CFA), have caused a stir in the Chinese football world. These new rules regulate the number of foreign players and require clubs to have for each match: at least one Chinese under-23 player in the starting XI; at least three U23 players in the 18-player squad; and the number of U23 players and the times they play no fewer than foreign players. The rules have also limited Chinese clubs’ investment in transfer windows by doubling transfer fees overnight.
The CFA said the new rules are aimed at promoting the development of youth players and training in the country, but some critics argue that this move, despite its good intention, is too premature for the Chinese football market. It remains to be seen whether this is the best way to balance commercial value and youth player development.
The Chinese Basketball Association
Although the Chinese Basketball Association is not as widely known as the CSL, the first-tier professional men’s basketball league in China has a remarkable fan base.
As reported in the Yutang Sports viewership report 2016, the league showed its popularity by having 7 CBA matches ranked in CCTV’s Top 10 basketball games list.
Even more importantly, China has been making recent progress in basketball reforms. With the establishment of the CBA Company, Yao Ming’s election as CBA President and the launch of the CBA Summer League the country is on track to separate its professionally-run basketball league from its traditional government-run system.
All these changes will help improve decision-making, enhance independence and transparency, as well as turn the CBA into a more professional and commercialised league in the international market.
However, beyond football and basketball, other sports leagues in China are not yet operated in a much professional level, such as badminton, table tennis and volleyball. They still need to be run more professionally and to attract more attention.
Marathon Running
Mass participation events, on the other hand, are developing at an unprecedented rate in China.
Take marathon running as an example. In 2016, 328 marathon-related events were approved by the Chinese Athletic Association, which is almost 1.5 times more than 2015 (134 events) and 14 times more than 2011 (22 events). Parallel to the increase in marathon events is a rise in number of participants, reaching 2.8 million last year, up 1.3 million from the previous year.
However, we should not only focus on the numbers but on how we can solve more tougher issues regarding how to carry out the national fitness programs. Some questions include: How can we balance policies and market demand? How can we make full use of sports venues? How can we promote the development of grass roots clubs? How can we make events more professional and motivate mass engagement and participation? And how can we provide more public sports resources to the public?
Policy Support for Mass Participation
Recently, a national plan was jointly released by nine Chinese departments on supporting social strengths for organising mass participation events such as marathons and bicycle races.
The plan describes that marathon runners and the times people run marathons should exceed five million and related consumption should be over RMB 20 bn; consumption related to bicycle races should also exceed RMB 20 bn.
As such, we can see the government is making more detailed guides in different disciplines/areas and grass roots/mass participation events are playing an important role in realising the larger national sport industry goal.
As a conclusion, a well-established sports industry cannot only be strong in the sporting goods sector. Improvements in the sport event market are needed to optimise the industrial structure.
This article was written by Gu Xin of Yutang Sports -
David Simon, President of Los Angeles Sports Council to co-chair CityAccord and City-To-City at SAC2018
[Source: SportAccord Convention] Recognised as one of the most influential sports business leaders in Los Angeles having played a significant role in bids for almost every major sporting event that has been brought to the region in the last three decades, David Simon, President of the Lost Angeles Sports Council will co-chair CityAccord and City-to-City at the SportAccord Convention in Bangkok, Thailand from 15 – 20 April 2018.
In 1984 LA was the first Olympic Games ever to generate an operating surplus (US$235 million) and the region is eager to repeat this economic achievement in 2028. So how do cities go about selecting the right events and turning them into an outstanding success?
“Making relationships a priority – this year’s theme for CityAccord – is one of the pillars of success when it comes to bidding for and hosting major events. However, in order to achieve great success, selecting the right events is also key and requires clear thinking.
“As a city you need to look at your specific community and determine what is achievable based on your resources: human, financial and physical. Once you’ve identified these critical factors, forging strong relationships with event stakeholders will help you achieve your vision and deliver successful results. Cities and stakeholders will be able to examine these elements and more during CityAccord.” commented David Simon.
A popular day at SportAccord Convention, CityAccord will take place on Tuesday 17 April 2018 from 14:00 at the Centara Grand & Bangkok Convention Centre. Aimed at cities, regions, sponsors, international sport federations, organising committees and industry, delegates are encouraged to register.
Giles Morgan, HSBC Global Head of Sponsorship & Events of HSBC – Global Financial Organisation, will take part in the CityAccord Interactive Q&A entitled: “How do sponsors determine which sports and events to partner with?” where delegates will have the opportunity to ask sponsors about their approach and choices.
“It is a most timely question and one that will no doubt elicit a wide variety of responses. One thing is for sure – the sponsorship landscape is changing and it’s an incredibly exciting time to be involved. In short, we want our customers and our four key sports – golf, rugby, tennis and cycling – to thrive. We believe the way to achieve this is to invest in our sports through innovation, grass roots, entertainment and much more; by doing this we add value to the sports we sponsor and at the same time deliver spectacular brand experiences for our customers.”
Melanie Duparc Co-ordinator of Smart Cities & Sport Network – an Official Supporter of SportAccord Convention, will also co-chair CityAccord and City-to-City.
Further information can be found on the webpage CityAccord. Watch highlights from last year’s successful #SAC2017 City Day including comments from Melanie Duparc of Smart Cities & Sport, Ben Avison of Host City, as well as the #SAC2017 Convention City Co-Host, Lars Lundov, CEO of Sport Event Denmark. Registration for #SAC2018 is open. -
Event publisher “Host City” becomes official Delivery Partner for #SAC2018
Commenting on the importance of the partnership, Ben Avison, Editorial and Conference Director of Host City said:
“Host City is delighted to have become SportAccord Convention’s Delivery Partner. We see this as the natural evolution of an increasingly powerful relationship between two crucial platforms supporting the community of stakeholders in major international events.
“SportAccord Convention and Host City have enjoyed a mutually beneficial relationship for many years through media partnerships and conference activities.
“Host City particularly values opportunities to reinforce and forge new connections with leading people and organisations involved in major events.
“As well as being a focus for Host City’s high quality editorial coverage, SAC2018 in Bangkok will also provide a welcome opportunity for us to build engagement in Host City’s own events – including Host City Asia, which will bring the world of international event hosting to Beijing at the end of May 2018, and our annual global conference and exhibition in Glasgow in November 2017.”
SportAccord Convention is also a Silver Sponsor to Host City 2017 taking place in Glasgow from 28-29 November 2017.
Nis Hatt, Managing Director of SportAccord Convention said, “As an Official Delivery Partner, we’re delighted to have Host City onboard, given the importance and complexities of hosting major sports events. Host City has provided first-class support and media coverage for SportAccord Convention, and in recent years, with Ben Avison involved as a moderator for our CityAccord conference. We value their expertise and encourage delegates to draw on their experience in the lead-up to and during the SportAccord Convention in Bangkok.”
To network and connect with delegates ahead of the SportAccord Convention 2018 including international sports federations, cities, regions, organising committees, rights holders and suppliers, organisations involved in the business of sport can register for the SportAccord Convention in Bangkok as a delegate, or become involved as a partner and/or exhibitor.
The annual SportAccord Convention World Sport & Business Summit runs for 6 days and features an extensive Conference programme including CityAccord, a sell-out 3-day exhibition, and hosts the stakeholder General Assemblies attended by their Members. The Convention also offers many social and networking opportunities as part of its Official Schedule. -
Sir Ben Ainslie to deliver keynote at Lausanne IF Forum focused on sustainability
[Source: SportAccord Convention] Sir Ben Ainslie, four-time Olympic Gold Medallist & Team Principal, as well as Skipper of Britain’s America’s Cup Challenger, Land Rover BAR, will give the keynote on 8 November 2017 at the eleventh edition of the International Federation (IF) Forum focused on Sustainability.
Speaking ahead of this year’s event set to take place from 8-10 November at the Hotel Royal Savoy in Lausanne, Switzerland, Sir Ben Ainslie shared the following thoughts:
“It’s great that a flagship event like the International Federation (IF) Forum is focusing specifically on sustainability. Sports teams represent key role models in society and there is an opportunity for all sports teams to become truly sustainable businesses. At Land Rover BAR, we believe our influence should extend far beyond the race course, we look to educate and inspire to drive sustainability forward instinctively.”
This year’s IF Forum conference: ‘‘International Federation Impact – Leading the way towards a Sustainable Agenda’ will include Welcome Remarks from Thomas Bach, President of the International Olympic Committee, and Philippe Leuba, State Councillor Department of Economy and Sport, Canton of Vaud.
Patrick Baumann, President of GAISF and SportAccord Convention will deliver the Opening Address to leaders of the international sports federations and discussed the significance of this year’s theme on Sustainability:
“Avery Brundage, 5th president of the International Olympic Committee once described sport as ‘an international phenomenon like science or music’ and he was right. Sport has significant influence to shape the way people think about issues such as sustainability which is central to the future of our planet. As leaders of International Sports bodies we have a responsibility to use that influence by ensuring promoting sustainability and ingraining best practice into our events and operations.”
Marie Sallois Dembreville, Director of Corporate Development, Brand and Sustainability, IOC, will lead the Welcome and Opening Remarks on Thursday 9 November, and outline the objectives for the IF Forum, as well as the importance of implementing a common strategy.
The IF Forum conference will focus on infrastructure and natural sites, sourcing and resource management, climate, mobility, and workforce. The programme is a collaboration between the International Olympic Committee and all International Federations, and hosted by the SportAccord Convention team.
Speakers will include:Inger Andersen, Director General of IUCN – International Union for Conservation of Nature
David Stubbs, Sustainability Expert
Antony Scanlon, Executive Director, IGF – International Golf Federation
Gloria Scarano, Mountain Protection Coordinator, UIAA – International Mountaineering and Climbing Federation
Sabrina Ibáñez, Secretary General, FEI – International Equestrian Federation
Andreas Graf, Human Rights Manager, FIFA – International Federation of Football Association
Elena Merdaca, Administration Director, FIE – International Fencing Federation
John Liljelund, Secretary General, IFF – International Floorball Federation
Max T. Edkins, Manager, Connect4Climate Programme, World Bank Group
Janne Leskinen, Secretary General, Lahti 2017, FIS Nordic World Ski Championships
Thomas Kurth, Secretary General, UIM – International Powerboating Union
Denis Décosterd, Chef du Service du développement de la Ville et de la communication, ville de Lausanne
Maël Besson, Policy Officer, Sustainable Development of Sport, French Ministry of Cities, Youth and Sport, French Government
Dr Beate Grupp, IIHF – International Ice Hockey Federation
Will Lloyd, CEO, Global Sports Jobs
Roger Piarulli, Executive Director, THF – Taekwondo Humanitarian Foundation, WT – World Taekwondo
Jörn Verleger, Secretary General, IFA – International Fistball Association
Volker Bernardi, Executive Director, WFDF – World Flying Disc Federation
Magnus Sverdrup, Head of International Relations, Norwegian Olympic and Paralympic Committee and Confederation of Sports, Lillehammer Youth Olympic Games 2016An additional speaker will be presented by IKEA.
Panel sessions will be led by David Eades, Anchor and Journalist, BBC World who will also serve as Master of Ceremonies for the IF Forum 2017.
The IF Forum is for international sports federations, speakers and official IF Forum partners by invitation only.
Official Partners include: JLT Specialty, Nielsen Sports, Reno Tahoe Winter Games Coalition, Sport Event Denmark, Lausanne and the Canton de Vaud. -
Nenad Lalovic on UWW’s “more direct dialogue with host cities”
Host City: In the current climate, what kind of events do you think cities and sponsors are most interested in investing in?
Nenad Lalovic: The current climate demands an event that can deliver in a variety of areas that match with a cities or regions current agenda. Promotion of sport as means to a healthy lifestyle, sustainable which is not a burden to a city in the years following an event and a legacy that provides more options and programmes for youth development.
Host City: How does UWW maximise the impact of its own events for stakeholders – the IOC, host cities, sponsors and fans?
Nenad Lalovic: With our new Host City Bidding process, we included a more direct dialogue with host cities while maintaining the existing relationships we have with our National Federations. In doing so it allows us to have the city’s commitment right from the beginning, which creates synergies in finding more sponsors, engaging with fans as well as an event with a legacy.
Host City: Which regions around the world do you see as having the greatest potential for growing wrestling and how can you reach new fans there?
Nenad Lalovic: Asia has a tremendous growth potential for wrestling. Especially, China and India are two markets where we see strong viewership through our livestream and rights holders, and strong future athletes coming up. In addition, Africa and Eastern Europe are also in regions where we have seen steady increase in participation and viewership.
Nenad Lalovic is speaking at Host City 2017 on 28 and 29 November in Glasgow. For more information visit https://unitedworldwrestling.org and www.hostcity.com -
“Confirmed! SportAccord Convention is the only sports business event guaranteed to have all international sports federations present”
[Source: SportAccord] Making choices can be tricky when it comes to selecting which events to attend for organisations involved in the business of sport. With so much to consider, as well as Asia-Pacific set to overtake Europe in sponsorship spend, organisations who want to ensure they make the most from their investments, should register and become involved in the SportAccord Convention 2018 to be held in Bangkok, Thailand.
Why? SportAccord Convention is the only global sports business event guaranteed to have all the international sports federations present. Delegates can rest assured they will have access to 109 Members and Associate Member organisations, as well as 7 Observers, during the world sport and business summit.
SportAccord Convention offers a unique and exclusive networking environment, placing stakeholders in the perfect position to meet the key decision-makers in sport. Here are some compelling reasons for anyone who has a vested interest in sport, to invest and become an exhibitor at the 16th edition in Bangkok, Thailand.APAC is becoming the hottest global market with sponsorship growth expected to reach record levels
Nearly 40% of confirmed exhibitors are international sports federations who are actively looking to engage
Over 30% of exhibitors are cities and regions – just under half of these organisations are partners too
Every sport needs equipment manufacturers to operate an event
43% of the exhibition floor space has been reserved already – booths are being snapped-up quickly
Exhibition booths always sell-out well in advance of the Convention
For the first time, all delegates will pass through the exhibition area to access the conference auditorium and meeting rooms
The SAC Café is larger than ever and located within the exhibition zone with many great locations for delegates to network and take in the experience
Top speakers are signing-up for the #SAC2018 conference programme with the highly topical theme – Uniting a Global Audience: Marketing & Sponsorship for the FutureCommenting on the reasons why The World Games 2021 Birmingham (TWG 2021 BHM) and Greater Birmingham Convention and Visitors Bureau (GBCVB) have secured an exhibition booth (No. 113), Steve Mistrot, Sport Director, TWG 2021 BHM said:
“SportAccord Convention provides opportunities to develop relationships with the IWGA Member Federations. Partnering with GBCVB this year as Exhibitors provides valuable visibility for both organizations:
“For TWG 2021 BHM, a branded space to meet with IWGA Member Federations; for GBCVB, visibility to market Birmingham as a viable host for future events.”
Entry-level booths for SportAccord Convention will start at 6m² and include 4 delegate passes (increasing with booth size), graphics, TV, furniture, information counter, Wi-Fi, power, lights and carpet. Visit the website for further information including the Official Schedule or to register, and become an exhibitor, partner or delegate. -
SPORTELMonaco evolves with the sports media industry
Host City: What are the main challenges and opportunities facing the sports broadcasting sector right now and how is SPORTELMonaco addressing these questions?
Laurent Puons: The main issue the industry faces these days is that the world is becoming smaller for everybody. Broadcasting is not only a territorial effort, but with new technologies that enable broadcasting and streaming via internet and social media, territorial and legal matters have become a major headache for rights owners. Broadcasters are facing more and more competition from OTT providers and classic broadcasters must face the reality of extinction, although many still don’t believe it.
The fact is however that audiences worldwide demand variety and freedom of choice. This, for the sport industry is of course a great development and opportunity! The more fans can be rounded up across the globe to see just one sports event, the greater the opportunity to build brand, event and merchandise deals in multiple territories globally.
It’s impossible to cram all issues into one conference, there is simply not enough time to address all at once, but during SPORTELMonaco we can definitively address issues such as OTT, social media and new developments in Asia, which will lead up to our next spring convention SPORTELAsia 2018, in Singapore.
Host City: SPORTELMonaco is now described as “The World Sports Marketing & Media Convention”, reflecting a wider remit than the traditional focus on broadcasting. Why have you changed focus in this way?
Laurent Puons: We haven’t changed our focus, rather evolved “with” the industry, as more and more technologies appear every year that enable events, productions and broadcasters to deliver more sports content to viewers and fans on a massive variety of platforms and change the content business significantly. Also this part of the industry is a lot more influenced by marketing objectives of agencies, federations and brands. In result it is of course a necessary and natural progression of SPORTEL to provide these business opportunities to our community. No other event, but SPORTEL can realistically provide this wide variety.
3/ How can SPORTELMonaco help rights holders to find new ways to reach audiences?
Laurent Puons: For close to 30 years, SPORTEL has always been part of the industry development. Our team knows the industry personally, which is why we never address them as clients but our “community”. We have open and direct dialogues, built on years of trust and know how, understand which companies do what and know what will happen before most in the industry do. This gives us the advantage to prepare and build real business opportunities for the community.
SPORTEL truly is on the frontline of the industry and together with international decision makers we are in the position to see the future of our industry and react accordingly. -
Top-class gymnastics action to return to SSE Hydro as part of Glasgow 2018
[Source: Glasgow 2018] The SSE Hydro will once again take centre stage next summer when it hosts the European Artistic Gymnastics Championships as part of the Glasgow 2018 European Championships.
When some of the best gymnasts in the world step up to show their remarkable talents as they aim to strike gold, this city landmark will continue its reputation for attracting the finest competitors and most exciting competitions in the sport.
As a venue for the 2015 World Gymnastics Championships and the 2014 Commonwealth Games, the stunning SSE Hydro has witnessed plenty of special sporting moments over the years and will be the place to be for gymnastics fans when the Championships are in full swing. You can make sure you’re there to see champions crowned by getting your tickets here.
Aside from its record of holding unforgettable sporting events, the SSE Hydro, which has provided a stage for some of the biggest stars of music, has also been recognised by Pollstar as the second busiest live entertainment arena in the world.
But, soon enough, the spotlight will be back on athletes’ show-stopping routines.
Glasgow 2018 sporting ambassador Max Whitlock will be looking to continue a fine record when he returns to Glasgow, after clinching first place in the pommel horse two years ago and a medal haul including three golds at 2014’s Commonwealth Games.
The same event also brought success for Brit Claudia Fragapane, who became the first Englishwoman to win four golds at a single Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.
And Scotland’s Dan Keatings was also on the podium, securing a gold and two silvers in front of a home crowd.
Away from the GB stars, the SSE Hydro has also been the location for incredible performances from athletes coming from further afield.
At the Worlds in 2015, Greece’s Eleftherios Petrounias wowed to come out on top in the men’s rings, while, among the other highlights, Romanian favourite Marian Dragulescu, a four-time world champion, took silver on the vault.
With just months to go until Glasgow 2018 gets underway, many of those hoping to write their name in the history books have already had their say on competing somewhere that those in the sport know so well.
Sporting ambassador Max said: “I’m really excited about Glasgow 2018 – it is always great to compete at a multi-sport event and I have always loved it here in Glasgow. The crowd is always amazing and give you that extra lift. It can make such a difference to your performance out there on the podium.
“I witnessed that first-hand during the 2014 Commonwealth Games and again at the World Championships the following year. So I have no doubt that Glasgow 2018 will be a huge success.”
Claudia also can’t wait to return to a venue that holds special memories.
She said: “The atmosphere was just breath-taking. There was a lot of pressure because everyone wanted us to do well. We wanted to do well and we knew we could do it so to get that massive roar from the crowd helped us with each performance. It will be amazing to go back to Glasgow – the city has such a special place in my heart.”
And Nile Wilson, who won team silver in the 2015 World Championships in Glasgow, added: “The SSE Hydro has hosted some of the greatest moments of my career. The home support really, really does make a difference. And obviously we’re now looking forward to next year’s European Championships and I’m really excited at the prospect of competing once again in Glasgow.” -
Global marketing and sponsorship theme drives record highs in delegate commitment for SportAccord Convention 2018
[Source: SportAccord Convention] Global sports sponsorship is set to achieve $44 billion in 2017 with strong growth projected to continue in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region as well as other parts of the world, including Europe and the USA. On top of this, the global spending power of Millennials is $2.5 trillion annually with 95% saying they will switch to a brand with a good cause.[1]
Influencer marketing, social responsibility, social activism, data rights, virtual reality, live streaming channels, brand purpose and brand co-creation, as well as attracting millennials who no longer watch television or visit websites – are some of the biggest challenges facing organisations today involved in the business of sport.
Activations on and off the field of play, content engagement, connected experiences and much more, will all be addressed at SportAccord Convention 2018, the only global sports gathering attended by every international sports federation as well as many of the key stakeholders in sport.
Set to take place from 15 – 20 April 2018 at the Centara Grand and Bangkok Convention Centre, Thailand, the plenary conference will focus on the theme: Uniting a Global Audience – Marketing and Sponsorship for the Future. As part of the full conference programme, additional conference streams – CityAccord, MediaAccord, LawAccord and HealthAccord, will also examine the challenges that lie ahead when it comes to sponsorship and marketing.
As a result, SportAccord Convention registrations have soared (compared to this time last year), and record numbers of international sports federations have committed to exhibition booths. Many partners are re-signing having experienced the intrinsic value the Convention brings, while Malaysia Major Events has moved up a tier (to Gold).
Other partners to re-sign include Sport Event Denmark, (Gold Partner and Co-Host of last year’s Convention in Aarhus, Denmark) and DB Schenker (Delivery Partner), both of whom have been closely involved with the Convention since its inception in 2003, and Host City has become a Delivery Partner for the first time. Silver Partners Edmonton Events and Event Scotland, and Bronze Partners FIBA and Visit Victoria, as well as many media partners, have already confirmed their commitment to return and will be in Bangkok.
Not wanting to miss out, newcomers from the APAC region such as MI Associates will experience the world sport and business summit for the first time. Other organisations are taking advantage of their global presence to send C-level teams from Asia-Pacific such as Lagardère Sports Australia, while Great Big Events is bringing its largest delegation to date from both Australia and the United Kingdom.
Regarded as the sports business hub for collaboration and discovery, Greg Bowman, Managing and Creative Director commented:
“Great Big Events has been attending SportAccord Convention since its inaugural event in 2003. Our team is very excited to be involved once again, as we always find it a great event for discussing innovation and progress in sport and discovering ways to continue to push our industry forward into new and exciting territory.”
With so much to address and so many opportunities to be gained from taking part in one of the most important summits in 2018, organisations are encouraged to register and take part in the SportAccord Convention. Currently priced at CHF 2,000 and due to rise by CHF 500 on 6 November 2017, a delegate pass provides access to the most exclusive network of key decision-makers, stakeholders and experts in the world of sport.
Delegates have access to the full conference programme, 3-day exhibition, the Thai Pavilion, and numerous networking opportunities, including social events, the Opening Ceremony and Closing Event, luncheons, evening cocktails, the After Hours Bar, and much more. Follow developments and updates via Twitter @saconvention using #SAC2018, as well as LinkedIn and Facebook.
[1] Good is the New Cool: Market Like You Give a Damn / Author: Afdhel Aziz