The Value of Today’s NHL
Hockey is the least watched sport in the United States. Behind football, basketball, and baseball, professional hockey pulls the least amount of viewers. But hockey is seeing a new life come to the surface. Take away comparisons to other leagues, and look at hockey as its own market. From a promotional standpoint, hockey is full of untapped potential. It’s the unwavering dedicated fans that make a difference. Why has hockey been exclusive? There are many reasons for hockey’s exclusivity, the first being location. Whereas Americans can claim football, basketball, and baseball, hockey was born in Canada. This means hockey’s traction in the U.S. was limited to the northern states for many years. If a frozen pond wasn’t available, there was a rink open somewhere. This couldn’t be said for most states. Another barrier is money. Whereas kids playing basketball really only need a ball and a public hoop, a kid playing hockey will spend a couple thousand dollars per year on travel and equipment alone. How the NHL is expanding their reach The NHL is seeing success in removing these hurdles. USA Hockey reported that the number of registered amateur hockey players grew from approximately 400,000 in 2010 to over 550,000 in 2019. Teams are growing the sport at the grassroots level with various programs to garner interest. The Hockey Is For Everyone initiative, launched by the NHL and the players’ association, is making hockey increasingly popular in previously excluded communities. The NHL is promoting “diversity and inclusion among those of all sexual orientation, genders, ethnicities, abilities and socioeconomic statuses,” (Comitor). Demographics positively impacted include the black community, the LGBTQ+ community, women and girls, and lower income households. The NHL and NHLPA also founded the Industry Growth Fund in 2013, putting hundreds of millions of dollars into initiatives that are bringing hockey to kids and communities. They’re funding teams, rinks, educational programs, and countless other impactful endeavors. With the league’s commitment to expansion, new NHL teams make rinks available and start outreach programs in their areas. These programs are created to pull in new fans, and include skating lessons, hockey camps, free gear, and free and discounted tickets. In Las Vegas, a city unfamiliar with professional sports (and ice), professional hockey hit the ground running in 2017. The Golden Knights were immediately embraced by the community. Expansion teams offer a chance for new hockey fans to be the first supporters of a team – the two grow together. Expansion teams also create new rivalries. Just four years after Vegas’ inaugural season, the Seattle Kraken joined the NHL. The two teams already possess strong enough fan bases that Seattle hosted Vegas this year in the 2024 Winter Classic. Lastly, the age of social media is working in the NHL’s favor. A new generation of players is proving to be influential in changing the stoic reputation of the league. They’re talented, flashy on the ice, personable on camera, and willing to work with social media marketing. Older figures in the sport have pushed back against the behavior of new players and the NHL’s initiatives. But what fans love about hockey, at its core, remains untouched. With social media, fans are getting acquainted with players before they’re even drafted. The hype behind generational phenom Connor Bedard transcended the hockey community, as his story took social media and sports television by storm. As a result, Bedard’s NHL debut with the Chicago Blackhawks “drew an average viewership count of 1.43 million on ESPN, making it the most-watched regular-season NHL game ever on cable television,” (Rasmussen). While sticking with what they know will keep their dedicated fans interested, NHL teams are also taking advantage of the opportunity to resonate with new fans and younger fans through social media. On every platform, teams are highlighting themselves and individual players through dedicated creative efforts. From innovative graphic design to goosebump-inducing hype videos, to informal, funny Tweets, hockey is excelling in social media marketing. On TikTok, for example, teams follow popular trends, even “silly” ones. They listen to their audiences, posting content of well-liked players and asking players fan questions. Young players like Quinn, Jack, and Luke Hughes garner lots of attention on their teams’ social media platforms. The brothers, all playing in the NHL, are loved league-wide by fans. It’s not uncommon to see “cute” videos of these three, which entices female fans to try watching the sport, which previously wasn’t marketed to them. Invest in hockey Truthfully, it doesn’t matter that hockey is the least-watched sport of the four top leagues. From the very beginning, hockey has sustained a niche community whose dedication rivals top leagues. Fans have always believed that hockey reigns supreme, and they’re the only ones in on the secret. That attitude isn’t changing anytime soon. The proof is undeniable. “According to Ampere’s Q4 2022 survey of US sports fans, the average amount that NHL fans would be willing to pay to watch sports was 54 per cent more than the typical US sports fan. They also report spending 2.3 hours a week longer watching live sports matches than the average fan in the US,” (Moore). Hockey is a tight-knit community, with rich histories and a welcoming attitude. Moreover, the NHL is devoted to growing this community organically, connecting with fans, and making everyone feel included. Of all professional sports leagues in the United States, it’s fair to say hockey is excelling in both tradition and progress. What matters most is ever-present loyalty. If you’ve got hockey fans’ attention, you’ve struck gold. SCA Promotions knows loyalty, and they know hockey. At the halfway point of the NHL season, it’s not too late to contact SCA and see how you can draw on hockey to promote your brand.
Iowa Company Runs March Madness Rebate, SCA Covers Prize
February 26, 2024 DALLAS, TX – Midwest Mattress of Iowa is stepping into the college basketball arena with a rebate promotion covered by SCA Promotions. If the University of Iowa or Iowa State women’s basketball team wins the 2024 NCAA Tournament, Midwest Mattress will give a 100% refund on Beautyrest Mattresses and adjustable bases. This rebate will be covered in full by SCA. With 9 locations in the State of Iowa, Midwest Mattress has been a trusted name in sleep solutions for the past 19 years. A strong commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, the company offers a wide range of mattresses, bedding accessories, and sleep essentials. Event-based rebates, such as wagers on both college and professional championship outcomes, have been re-emerging in popularity since their peak in the early 2000s. Rebate coverage offers a great solution for companies wanting to connect with their local fan base, and SCA Promotions has been the industry leader in prize coverage for almost 40 years. “College basketball fans are passionate about their teams and players and there is no bigger story in college basketball this year than Caitlin Clark,” said Ragan Rector, an Account Coordinator at SCA Promotions. “It makes perfect sense that Midwest Mattress would tap into the excitement of the tournament, it’s no wonder why these programs are becoming increasingly popular across the country.” Running event rebates alone is risky, when the conditions of a rebate are met, a company without a partner like SCA would be responsible for the total prize amount. However, SCA Promotions guarantees the full value of the rebate, so companies can offer larger-than-life prizes without worrying about the risk. In Midwest Mattress’ case, if either the Iowa State University or University of Iowa women’s basketball team emerges victorious with a NCAA Championship win, they will issue a refund on the Beautyrest mattresses and adjustable bases purchased between February 9, 2024 and March 16, 2024. Guaranteed by SCA, Midwest Mattress co-founder Michael Prichard can root for either Iowa school without worry. “Either way, you’re a winner because you’ll be scoring points with your new mattress. Imagine this: an Iowa team clinching the championship while you net a free Beautyrest mattress and adjustable base—it’s the slam dunk of deals,” joked Prichard. About SCA Promotions SCA Promotions has awarded over $228,000,000 in prizes since their founding in 1986. SCA is the global leader for promotional prize coverage, risk management and user engagement solutions that increase ROI, brand awareness and loyalty. With unmatched experience and an extensive selection of promotional services, SCA is the preferred partner of brands, retailers and marketing agencies around the globe. For comment or inquiries, please contact us at marketingoperations@scapromo.com
Drive Business Success with a Hole-in-One Contest
Incorporating a hole-in-one contest into your golf outing holds immense potential for enhancing your business. Not only does it inject a surge of excitement into the event, drawing in more participants and amplifying visibility, but it also serves as a powerful tool for brand recognition. Through strategic placement of signage, branded merchandise, and event announcements, your brand can establish a strong presence, leaving a lasting imprint on attendees. Moreover, the contest sparks social media buzz, as participants eagerly share their experiences online, widening the event’s reach and fostering community engagement. By offering enticing prizes, you not only incentivize consumer participation but also cultivate lasting connections with your brand, driving consumer loyalty and advocacy. The ripple effect extends beyond the event itself, as exclusive discounts and promotions drive traffic to your storefront or website, bolstering sales and revenue. Additionally, the opportunity to collect participant contact information facilitates targeted marketing efforts, further fueling business growth. In essence, integrating a hole-in-one contest into your golf outing isn’t just about adding an element of fun; it’s a strategic move with the potential to catapult your business to new heights of success.
The Impact of Business Promotions on Clientele Growth
In the dynamic world of business, attracting and retaining customers is a perpetual challenge. However, one highly effective strategy that businesses use to expand their clientele is through strategic promotions. These initiatives not only enhance brand visibility but also play a pivotal role in fostering customer loyalty. Let’s explore why business promotions are instrumental in boosting clientele size. Promotions act as a beacon, drawing attention to your brand amidst a sea of competitors. Whether it’s a limited-time discount, a giveaway, or a special offer, promotions create buzz and entice both existing and potential customers. This heightened visibility not only attracts new clientele but also keeps your brand at the forefront of customers’ minds. Engaging customers beyond transactions is vital for building lasting relationships. Promotions offer an avenue for interaction, encouraging customers to actively participate in your brand’s story. Loyalty programs, exclusive discounts, or referral rewards not only incentivize repeat purchases but also foster a sense of belonging and appreciation among patrons. Strategic promotions extend the reach of your business. Leveraging social media, email campaigns, or partnering with influencers amplifies the promotional message, reaching a wider audience. This expansion often leads to an influx of new clients intrigued by the value proposition offered through your promotional efforts. Promotions serve as a platform to showcase new products, services, or unique offerings. Highlighting innovation and value through promotions communicates to both existing and potential customers that your business is dynamic, responsive to market needs, and committed to providing exceptional value. Each promotional campaign is an opportunity to gather invaluable data about customer preferences, behaviors, and demographics. Analyzing this data empowers businesses to tailor future promotions more effectively, ensuring they resonate with the target audience and drive higher conversion rates. Business promotions are a catalyst for growth. They amplify brand awareness, deepen customer engagement, and create a cycle of continued interest. By strategically planning and executing promotions, businesses not only attract new clientele but also nurture lasting relationships with existing customers, resulting in a robust and expanding client base. In a landscape where consumer choices abound, businesses that leverage well-thought-out promotions stand at the forefront, enticing clientele and carving a path towards sustained growth and success.
How Spring-Themed Business Promotions Blossom Success
As the chill of winter gives way to the warmth and renewal of spring, businesses have a golden opportunity to harness the spirit of the season through strategic promotions. Spring isn’t just a time for nature’s rebirth; it’s also a prime occasion for businesses to revitalize their marketing strategies. Let’s explore the myriad benefits of leveraging spring-themed promotions, breathing new life into customer engagement and fostering business growth. Spring evokes feelings of rejuvenation, freshness, and vitality. By aligning promotions with this seasonal shift, businesses can tap into these emotions, forging deeper connections with customers. Whether it’s offering discounts on products ideal for spring activities or creating themed events, promotions can resonate with the sense of renewal that spring brings, fostering a positive association with your brand. With the arrival of milder weather, people are more inclined to step outdoors and engage in various activities. Businesses can capitalize on this by tailoring promotions that cater to spring-related interests. From gardening supplies to outdoor apparel, fitness gear, or travel packages, promotions aligned with spring-themed products or experiences are likely to capture customers’ attention and drive increased engagement. Spring offers a canvas for creative marketing campaigns. Whether it’s through vibrant visuals, lively social media contests, or themed events, businesses can infuse their promotions with the colors and energy of the season. This presents an opportunity to showcase innovation, launch new products, or refresh existing offerings, all under the vibrant umbrella of spring. Spring often sparks community events and gatherings. Businesses can actively participate or sponsor local spring festivals, fairs, or charity events, aligning their promotions with these activities. Associating your brand with community involvement during this season enhances its reputation and fosters a sense of goodwill among customers. To wrap it up, spring-themed business promotions offer a plethora of advantages, from tapping into emotions associated with the season to increasing engagement and fostering community connections. Embracing the essence of spring in your marketing efforts can breathe new life into your business, attracting customers and invigorating brand loyalty. So, as nature bursts forth with new life this spring, consider how your business can also bloom and flourish by embracing the season in your promotional strategies. Harness the spirit of renewal and watch your business blossom into new heights of success.
Amplifying Business Success: Leveraging Concerts to Drive Customer Engagement
When the buzz of concerts fills the air and music enthusiasts flock to your town, it presents a golden opportunity for local businesses to harmonize with the excitement. By strategically aligning promotions with these musical events, businesses can strike a chord with potential customers and orchestrate a symphony of increased sales and heightened brand visibility. Concerts attract a diverse audience, each with unique preferences and interests. Businesses can capitalize on this by tailoring promotions that resonate with concert-goers. Whether it’s offering discounts to ticket holders, creating themed menu items or cocktails, or organizing pre- or post-concert events, aligning promotions with the musical tastes of the audience can strike a chord and draw them toward your establishment. Collaboration is key to success. Businesses can explore partnerships with concert venues or even local artists to cross-promote each other. This might involve hosting after-parties, providing exclusive deals for concert attendees, or arranging meet-and-greet sessions. Such collaborations not only enhance visibility but also create an experience that extends beyond the concert, driving foot traffic and fostering a sense of community. Infusing the business atmosphere with the spirit of the concert can be a powerful draw. Restaurants, bars, and shops can deck out their interiors with thematic decorations or play music from the featured artists, enhancing the concert vibe. This immersive experience can entice concert-goers to extend their musical journey by patronizing your establishment before or after the event. Leveraging social media platforms and online marketing is crucial. Businesses can create targeted ads or social media campaigns centered around the concert, offering exclusive promotions to those attending. Contests, giveaways, or sharing exciting content related to the concert can help generate buzz and attract attention to your business. Concerts often bring a surge in foot traffic to an area. Businesses strategically positioned near the venue can seize this opportunity by offering promotions visible to passersby. Attractive signage, promotional boards, or distributing flyers near the concert area can direct concert-goers to your establishment, enticing them with enticing offers or discounts. Concerts are not just about the music; they present a unique occasion for local businesses to strike a chord with a diverse audience and increase customer engagement. By aligning promotions with these events, businesses can create memorable experiences, foster community connections, and drive in new customers. So, as the next concert beats its drum in town, businesses can elevate their success by orchestrating promotions that resonate with music enthusiasts. By harmonizing with the concert vibe, businesses can amplify their visibility, attract a diverse clientele, and ultimately strike the right chord for business success.
Marching to Victory: How Geofenced Gamification Turns Bars and Restaurants into College Basketball Championship Havens!”
Hey hoops enthusiasts and bar-hoppers, get ready to experience the slam dunk of a lifetime! As College Basketball Championship takes center stage, we’re about to unveil the game-changer that’s turning your favorite bars and restaurants into the ultimate College Basketball Championship hotspots: geofenced gamification.
The Art of Santa Claus Marketing
The holiday season is a time when businesses around the world embrace the spirit of giving, sharing, and, in some cases, the spirit of Santa Claus himself. Santa Claus marketing, a creative and heartwarming approach to holiday advertising, combines festive elements with effective branding strategies. Let’s explore the enchanting world of Santa Claus marketing and why it’s a delightful way to connect with customers during this special time of year. Santa Claus marketing centers around the concept of spreading joy and goodwill, just as Santa does. Companies often use this approach to convey a message of warmth, generosity, and community involvement. Whether it’s through heartfelt commercials, holiday-themed social media posts, or special in-store decorations, businesses aim to create a sense of togetherness and positivity during the holiday season. The magic of Santa Claus lies in the emotional connection he fosters with people of all ages. Brands leverage this by telling heartwarming stories that evoke nostalgia, happiness, and a sense of wonder. These stories might revolve around acts of kindness, family gatherings, or the anticipation of gifts under the tree. When consumers connect emotionally with a brand, they are more likely to remember it and, ultimately, become loyal customers. Santa Claus marketing often involves giving a seasonal makeover to a brand’s logo, packaging, or products. Companies incorporate traditional holiday elements, such as snowflakes, reindeer, or Santa hats, into their visual identity. This temporary rebranding not only signals the arrival of the holiday season but also helps businesses stand out and pique consumers’ interest. Gift-giving is at the heart of Santa Claus marketing. Brands often run special promotions, discounts, and giveaways during the holiday season, creating a sense of excitement and anticipation among their customer base. This not only boosts sales but also enhances the brand’s reputation for generosity. Santa Claus himself is known for his acts of charity, and brands can follow suit. Many companies use the holiday season as an opportunity to give back to their communities. Whether it’s donating to a local charity, organizing toy drives, or volunteering, these acts of kindness not only help those in need but also endear the brand to consumers who appreciate socially responsible businesses. Storytelling is a powerful tool in Santa Claus marketing. Brands create compelling narratives that revolve around the holiday season, and they share these stories through various marketing channels, such as blogs, social media, and video content. Engaging stories not only entertain but also create a deeper connection between the brand and its audience. Santa Claus is all about personalization. He knows what each child wants and delivers accordingly. Brands can adopt a similar approach by offering personalized holiday experiences to their customers. Whether it’s customized gifts, tailored recommendations, or personalized holiday greetings, this level of attention makes customers feel valued and appreciated. In conclusion, Santa Claus marketing is a delightful and effective way for businesses to connect with their audience during the holiday season. By harnessing the magic and warmth associated with Santa Claus, companies can create a memorable and heartwarming holiday experience for their customers. After all, just like Santa himself, the best marketing leaves people with a smile on their faces and a sense of joy in their hearts.
Let’s Look Back at Some of the Best NYE Promotions
The Cool History of NYE Promotions The end of one year and the beginning of another is a special time, and savvy marketers know how to leverage the spirit of the New Year to captivate their audiences. Over the years, there have been some famous New Year’s marketing stunts that not only left a lasting impression but also set the stage for innovative and memorable campaigns. In this blog, we’ll take a look at a few of these iconic New Year’s marketing moments. 1. The Times Square Ball Drop (1907) One of the most famous New Year’s marketing stunts is the Times Square Ball Drop in New York City. This tradition began in 1907 when the New York Times organized a fireworks display to celebrate the opening of their new headquarters. Over the years, the event has evolved into a massive marketing spectacle, featuring a sparkling crystal ball that descends as the countdown to midnight begins. Countless brands pay top dollar for advertising space in Times Square, making this a prime opportunity to reach a global audience. 2. Coca-Cola’s Polar Bears (1993) Coca-Cola is renowned for its iconic Christmas campaigns, but in 1993, they cleverly extended their holiday marketing into the New Year. They introduced the beloved Coca-Cola polar bears, who were seen celebrating the New Year by watching the Northern Lights. This heartwarming ad not only promoted the brand but also became a symbol of the holiday season. 3. Google’s “Year in Search” (2012 – Present) Since 2012, Google has been celebrating the New Year with its “Year in Search” campaign. This powerful marketing stunt takes a reflective look back at the year, using real search data to highlight the events and moments that shaped the past 12 months. The campaign has become an annual tradition, reflecting the power of data and storytelling in marketing. 4. Airbnb’s Floating House (2016) In 2016, Airbnb unveiled an extraordinary New Year’s marketing stunt by offering a one-night stay in a floating house with stunning panoramic views of Sydney Harbor and its iconic fireworks display. This stunt combined luxury, adventure, and an incredible New Year’s celebration. Although it was available for just one night, the attention it garnered showcased Airbnb’s innovative approach to marketing. 5. Spotify’s “Thanks 2016, It’s Been Weird” (2016) In 2016, Spotify took a lighthearted and relatable approach to New Year’s marketing. The music streaming platform created playful billboards using user data that highlighted amusing and peculiar listening habits throughout the year. This witty campaign not only resonated with users but also demonstrated Spotify’s deep understanding of its audience. 6. REI’s #OptOutside (2015 – Present) For several years now, outdoor retailer REI has made a bold statement by closing its stores on Black Friday and encouraging employees and customers to #OptOutside instead. This innovative marketing stunt taps into the desire for meaningful experiences and aligns the brand with a sense of adventure and the great outdoors. It’s a unique approach to holiday marketing that has garnered significant attention and respect. 7. Snapchat’s New Year’s Eve Lenses (2015 – Present) Snapchat’s New Year’s Eve marketing stunt takes advantage of the platform’s interactive features. Every year, Snapchat offers special New Year’s Eve filters and lenses that users can use to enhance their photos and videos as they celebrate. This not only engages users but also creates a sense of community as people share their celebrations with friends and followers. In conclusion, these famous New Year’s marketing stunts demonstrate the power of creativity, innovation, and an understanding of the audience. As a new year approaches, businesses can draw inspiration from these remarkable campaigns to create their own memorable and impactful marketing moments, all while embracing the spirit of new beginnings and the excitement of the holiday season.
Why Competitive Campaigning For The Holidays is Important
As the holiday season approaches, the world undergoes a remarkable transformation. Streets shimmer with twinkling lights, families gather for festive celebrations, and businesses engage in a spirited competition to capture the hearts and wallets of consumers. The influx of marketing campaigns during the holiday season is nothing short of a spectacle, and for businesses, it’s a make-or-break opportunity. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind this annual marketing frenzy and why it’s crucial for businesses to be competitive during this special time of the year. The holiday season triggers a significant shift in consumer behavior. People are not only more willing to spend but also actively looking for products and services to make their festivities memorable. According to the National Retail Federation, holiday retail sales can account for up to 30% of annual sales for some retailers. This change in consumer behavior presents a golden opportunity for businesses to boost their revenue and establish a strong foothold in the market. With this surge in consumer activity, businesses of all sizes strive to outshine their competitors. The holiday season is marked by intense marketing campaigns, where companies invest in eye-catching advertisements, engaging social media strategies, and attractive promotions. It’s a race to grab the attention of consumers and convert their interest into sales. One of the key reasons for the surge in marketing during the holidays is the emotional resonance of the season. The festive atmosphere encourages brands to create heartwarming and captivating campaigns that resonate with the sentimental spirit of the holidays. These emotional connections help foster brand loyalty and can have a long-lasting impact on consumer perception. The tradition of gift-giving is at the core of the holiday season. Marketers understand this and tailor their campaigns to align with popular gifting trends. Whether it’s offering unique gift options, personalization, or limited-edition products, businesses aim to make the gifting experience easier and more enjoyable for consumers. The digital age has transformed holiday shopping, with an ever-increasing number of consumers turning to online platforms. This shift creates opportunities for businesses to expand their reach and appeal to a broader audience. Brands that invest in user-friendly websites, seamless mobile experiences, and effective e-commerce strategies have a significant advantage. The competitiveness of marketing campaigns during the holiday season is not merely a trend; it’s a necessity for businesses. Here’s why being competitive is crucial: The holiday season can make or break a business’s annual revenue. Being competitive allows a company to tap into the increased consumer spending, resulting in higher sales and profits. With numerous campaigns vying for attention, being competitive ensures that your brand isn’t lost in the holiday marketing shuffle. Staying top-of-mind with consumers is vital for long-term success. Exceptional holiday experiences can translate into year-round customer loyalty. A competitive campaign can turn first-time buyers into repeat customers. A successful holiday campaign can create lasting brand recognition and customer engagement, which can benefit your business well beyond the holiday season. The influx of marketing campaigns during the holiday season is a testament to the power of this magical time of year. For businesses, it’s a prime opportunity to boost sales, foster customer loyalty, and make a lasting impact on their target audience. Being competitive during this period is not just a choice; it’s a necessity to thrive in today’s fast-paced and ever-changing market. So, as the holiday season approaches, gear up for the festive competition and make your mark in the hearts of consumers.
