Renewal Announcement - 30th March Deadline

I think the Supporter Forum really failed fans by not asking the right questions at an earlier opportunity but credit where credit is due it is clear that Rob and others have been able to put across to the club the concerns of the fans.

Securing the extension of the deadline will make a massive difference to lots of people. So a thank you and well done on that

Now to the but… The club failed in communicating this. Fans deserve an apology, it’s as simple as that. Accept that they did this the wrong way, accept responsibility, accept the extension of the deadline and provide a rationale for the increase and a promise to consult with all fans about this in the future starting now.

I also need an answer as to why the club sent out an email with no strategy, no intent, no motivation. It’s a complete failure of the marketing team. That would have been ok, we all have a bad day in the office but then in the most recent statement we get this:

“Also in response to further discussions with supporter groups, it’s worth noting that the percentage increase on Season Tickets will be largely offset by the increase the club faces in both the National Minimum Wage and in Business Rates.”

The reason for being honest and upfront is that there is clearly a good reason for price increases. But be honest from the start. Stop adding all of this reactionary substantiation. Stop while you are behind, apologise and relaunch the entire campaign.

Maybe the club should have the national minimum wage in mind when they set renewal deadlines.
 
This is pretty basic and "common sense" ?

The full article can be found here>>>

[Edited]

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PR in Football: Strategies, Impact, and Best Practices​

by Nastya Zelenovskaya
May 22, 2023May 31, 2023

Football, often referred to as “the beautiful game,” captivates millions of fans worldwide with its thrilling matches, iconic players, and passionate rivalries. However, behind the scenes, a powerful force shapes the perception of clubs, players, and the sport itself—public relations (PR). In this blog post, we delve into the world of PR in football and unravel its significance in the modern landscape of the game.​

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Definition of public relations (PR) in the context of football:​

Public relations, in the realm of football, encompasses the strategic communication efforts aimed at managing the reputation, image, and public perception of clubs, players, and other stakeholders. It involves crafting compelling narratives, maintaining positive relationships with the media, engaging fans, and effectively managing crises to ensure the overall success and growth of the sport.

In an era characterized by the omnipresence of media and the influence of social platforms, PR has become more vital than ever in football. It serves as a powerful tool to shape public opinion, attract sponsors, enhance club revenue, and create a strong personal brand for players. From managing transfers and crises to engaging with fans and communities, PR strategies have a profound impact on the success and sustainability of football clubs and players alike.​

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The Influence of Media Coverage on Public Relations in Football​

Media coverage plays a crucial role in shaping PR in football. The way football events, players, and clubs are portrayed in the media significantly influences public perception and brand reputation. Here are some ways media coverage affects PR in football:​

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Image Building and Perception​

Media coverage helps shape the image and perception of football clubs, players, and key figures within the industry. Positive media coverage highlighting achievements, community initiatives, and sporting success can enhance a club’s or player’s reputation, attracting fans, sponsors, and investors. Conversely, negative or sensationalized coverage can damage reputations, erode public trust, and create challenges for PR teams in managing public perception.​

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Publicity and Exposure​

Media coverage provides valuable publicity and exposure for football clubs, players, and their associated brands. Positive coverage can generate increased visibility, which is vital for attracting sponsorship deals, securing endorsement contracts, and expanding the fan base. PR teams work closely with media outlets to ensure that positive stories and narratives about their clients are effectively communicated, leveraging media coverage as a means of building a strong brand presence.
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Crisis Management​

Media coverage plays a significant role in PR during times of crisis or controversy. When negative events or scandals occur, media outlets often amplify the news, intensifying the impact on the club or player involved. PR teams must swiftly respond, providing accurate information, managing media interactions, and presenting a coherent narrative to mitigate reputational damage. Effective crisis management through media relations can help regain control of the narrative, minimize negative coverage, and protect the long-term interests of clubs and players.
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Transfer Rumours and Speculation​

Media coverage fuels transfer rumours and speculation, which can impact PR in football. Clubs and players often face intense media scrutiny during transfer windows, with speculative stories and rumours dominating headlines. PR teams need to navigate these situations carefully, managing media interactions, addressing false or misleading information, and maintaining control of the narrative to protect the interests of their clients.


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Fan Engagement and Interaction​

Media coverage serves as a platform for fan engagement and interaction. Interviews, press conferences, and social media interactions provide opportunities for clubs and players to connect directly with their fans. PR teams play a crucial role in facilitating these interactions, ensuring that clubs and players effectively communicate their messages, values, and stories to engage and maintain a loyal fan base.


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Perhaps not the best way of getting the “message” across?

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Player PR and Personal Branding​

In today’s football landscape, players have the opportunity to become influential figures, not only through their performance but also through their personal brands. Social media and digital platforms have empowered players to directly engage with fans, share their stories, and cultivate loyal followings. Balancing on-field success with off-field PR activities is key to building a strong personal brand that resonates with fans and expands the player’s influence both within and beyond the realms of football.

For players, managing their personal brand requires a delicate balance between on-field performance and off-field PR activities. While success on the pitch remains paramount, players must also consider their public image and the impact of their actions. Engaging in charitable endeavors, supporting social causes, and participating in community initiatives can enhance a player’s brand reputation. However, they must navigate carefully to ensure that their off-field pursuits do not overshadow their primary role as footballers and that their commitment to the sport remains evident.​

Enhancing Club Reputation​

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One of the primary roles of PR in football is to cultivate and maintain a positive image for clubs. Effective communication strategies play a crucial role in shaping public perception. Clubs invest in PR professionals who craft compelling narratives, manage official statements, and engage with various media channels to highlight their values, achievements, and contributions to the sport. By strategically communicating their mission, vision, and commitment to the community, clubs can establish a favourable reputation among fans, stakeholders, and the wider public.

By showcasing the club’s values, ambitions, and marketability, PR campaigns can demonstrate the unique opportunities for brand visibility and commercial growth that come with partnering with the club. Additionally, effective PR strategies can enhance a club’s reputation as a desirable destination for talented players, helping to attract and retain top-notch footballing talent.

A robust PR approach not only enhances a club’s reputation but also contributes to its long-term sustainability, financial growth, and competitiveness within the football industry.​

PR in Football Transfers​

Transfers are pivotal moments in football that capture the attention and imagination of fans worldwide. PR plays a crucial role in building excitement and anticipation around transfer announcements. Clubs strategically plan and execute PR campaigns to generate buzz, often utilizing social media, teaser videos, and cryptic messages to create intrigue.
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Managing Negotiations and Handling Media Speculation​

Transfer negotiations can be complex and involve various stakeholders, including clubs, players, agents, and intermediaries. PR teams work behind the scenes to manage the flow of information, control media speculation, and protect the interests of the club and player involved. They strategically release official statements, provide updates, or maintain a deliberate silence to ensure negotiations progress smoothly. By effectively managing media interactions and providing limited but strategic information, PR professionals help maintain confidentiality and control the narrative during sensitive transfer negotiations.

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Utilizing PR to Maintain Fan Loyalty during Player Departures​


Player departures can be challenging for both the club and the fans. PR plays a crucial role in maintaining fan loyalty and managing the fallout from high-profile transfers. Clubs employ PR strategies to emphasize the reasons behind the transfer, highlight the contributions of the departing player, and demonstrate the club’s commitment to continued success. By communicating openly and transparently, clubs can help fans understand the reasoning behind player departures, maintain their trust, and ensure ongoing support even in times of change.

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PRNEWS.IO as a Tool for PR in Football​


PRNEWS.IO is a valuable tool for football PR professionals seeking to enhance their media outreach and brand exposure. With its comprehensive platform and features tailored for effective press release distribution, PRNEWS.IO offers several benefits specifically relevant to the football industry:​
 
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DidsburySmog92 said:
Now to the but… The club failed in communicating this. Fans deserve an apology, it’s as simple as that. Accept that they did this the wrong way, accept responsibility, accept the extension of the deadline and provide a rationale for the increase and a promise to consult with all fans about this in the future starting now.
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No chance of an apology. The revised statement sounds more like they think they doing us peasants a favour.
 
“Maybe the club should have the national minimum wage in mind when they set renewal deadlines.”

It only matters when it affects them. If you’re on minimum wage then just use the finance option and pay for your season ticket on a monthly basis. We’ll charge you extra, of course, but there’s nothing we can do.

The whole thing has been a complete shambles from the start. I’m disgusted by the additional charges to use the finance option, the pricing structure is absolutely appalling and has been for years, and now the arrogance of this statement today.

Dropping people on minimum wage into the mix FFS. Starting their own little culture war there. F*ck right off with that Tory nonsense.
 
Blf said:
The difference between early bird prices and a new season ticket is massive.
Would it bother any season ticket holders on here if the club just said it was the same price with say £10 extra admin charge ?
Could help get a lot more ST holders if people didn't feel they were being ripped off.
Surely ST holders would rather see the club get more ST holders than have some feeling they are being rewarded for loyalty. They will still be paying the same.
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The gulf is intentional and is less to pee off ST holders and more to trap people in the cycle, as they don't want to come off the cheap pricing and go back into paying the full whack price as well as the club getting a nice windfall any time there is a rush on tickets due to people getting optimistic
 
With the money the club receive from “early bird” payments, can they bank it on an agreed minimum term basis and receive preferential interest [%] payments on it?
 
ThatFragranceGuy said:
The gulf is intentional and is less to pee off ST holders and more to trap people in the cycle, as they don't want to come off the cheap pricing and go back into paying the full whack price as well as the club getting a nice windfall any time there is a rush on tickets due to people getting optimistic
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I think its one of the reasons the 'half season card' was done away with as you didnt pay as much then qualified for the early bird a few months later
 
Davey_C said:
I think its one of the reasons the 'half season card' was done away with as you didnt pay as much then qualified for the early bird a few months later
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Yes I believe that is right and they could see the from the numbers and names involved.
 
This Government minimum excuse is a load of baloney. Why don’t they ask the players?

“Hi lads, we are going to have to put the ST prices up due to the Government minimum wage! It might mean that we lose 5,000 season ticket holders so you will lose some of your adoring fans, especially the kids. The atmosphere will be a lot less quiet with a lot of empty seats. Mind you, if you or your agents fancy chipping in a few quid we wouldn’t have to put the prices up…”.
 
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