Shorts: Fulham, Montirex, World Cricket Connects

Fulham Football club has announced Ticketmaster as the club’s new official ticketing technology provider.

As part of the new partnership, for the first time the Premier League club will issue season tickets as a digital pass.

Additionally, the ability to securely share and transfer tickets with friends and family will also be possible from the start of the upcoming 2024/25 football season, while Ticketmaster Sport’s Virtual Venue technology will enhance the ticket purchasing process for fans.

Commenting on the new relationship, Fulham FC’s Head of Ticketing, Katy Brecht, said, “We are delighted to be partnering with Ticketmaster Sport who will be providing the club’s new ticketing platform.

“The club is committed to making both the online ticket purchase experience and physical entry points at Craven Cottage easier and simpler for our supporters. With the immediate introduction of a new flexible operating platform and digital ticketing, we’re looking forward to working with Ticketmaster Sport to achieve our shared commitment to future innovation and a best-in-class experience that befits the Club and our fans.”

Chris Gratton, Managing Director of Ticketmaster Sport UK, added, “We are delighted to be once again working with Fulham FC, supplying a wide range of our technology solutions, industry-leading client service and marketing to support the club’s ambitions. Our team has worked hand-in-hand with Katy for smooth onboarding to prepare a best-in-class ticketing experience for supporters when they return to Craven Cottage ahead of the 24/25 Premier League season.”

Havas Play UK has been appointed to manage the strategic creator and brand partnerships for sportswear brand Montirex.

Founded in Liverpool by Daniel Yuen and Kieran Riddell-Austin in 2018, Montirex’s ambition, assisted by this latest appointment, is to expand beyond its roots in the north of England and grow across the UK.

According to a statement, Havas Play UK, ‘develop a unified artist, influencer and talent engagement relations strategy.’

Rosie Holden, president, Havas Play, said, “Anyone from the North of England will know about Montirex. Montirex has shown remarkable success in the North, driven by a passion for creativity embedded in community – an ethos we deeply share at Havas Play. We’re excited to be part of the next phase of their journey, bringing Montirex to the national stage through exciting, integrated creator campaigns. We’re proud to support Montirex in its mission to challenge the sportswear status quo across the UK.”

Amanda Calder-McLaren, CMO, Montirex, added, “Havas Play’s dedication to connecting with communities through culture and sport set them apart from the get-go. With their nationwide presence and expertise in delivering integrated, culturally embedded creator campaigns, they’re the perfect partner to help us bring Montirex’s vision to young people with a passion for sports, style and adventure across the nation.”

Havas Play UK will be supported by sister PR agency Havas Red North who will manage the PR and amplify Montirex’s campaigns.

The inaugural World Cricket Connects took place on Friday 5th July at Lord’s Cricket Ground.

The event, which brought to together some of the most influential and well-known names in cricket – including Sourav Ganguly, Kevin Pietersen, Kumar Sangakkara, Jos Buttler, Heather Knight, Jhulan Goswami, and Graeme Smith – was an opportunity to discuss key issues, challenges and opportunities facing the game.

The day was split into four sessions: Cricket’s Future, A Question of Economics, Cricket’s Growth Opportunity and It’s a Players’ World

London-based agency Playmaker Experiential has changed its name to OBE (On Board Entertainment).

The news follows its acquisition by US agency OBE Worldwide in March 2024.

Ian Hayne, Managing Partner of the OBE London office said, “We’re very proud to be a part of the OBE family, and are already seeing substantial growth globally as a result. Our OBE team in London are fortunate to already work with some of the biggest global brands, and are now expanding our portfolio even more in a very exciting time for us.”

Deb Lemon, OBE Worldwide CEO, added, “We are excited to welcome our new OBE London office, comprised of team members who have been valued partners for many years. This strategic acquisition strengthens our global presence and dedication to delivering experience excellence. Together, we will continue to push creative boundaries and craft impactful programmes that resonate with client audiences worldwide.”