What is Sports Hospitality?
Have you ever used hospitality at a sporting event in the past? It is still not a well-known concept in Japan, and many people may have never even heard about it.
Sports hospitality combines a best available ticket with premium food and drink, entertainment and an unforgettable atmosphere for guests. In general, hospitality package inclusions range from a choice of fine gourmet dining or informal style cuisine and complimentary drinks prior to the event, to dedicated hosts to attend to you and your guests throughout the event.
In western countries, sports hospitality is widely practised, and the concept was introduced for the first time in Japan at Rugby World Cup 2019.
Sports hospitality is a major business development tool in countries such as the US and Europe, but remains a relatively unexploited opportunity in Japan. It’s common for senior executives in western countries to entertain their most valued clients and future prospects by providing VIP access to elite sporting events, with the unique shared memories of a well-managed experience aiding in developing deep and profitable long-term business relationships.
Strengthening existing relationships is reported as being the key goal for corporate hospitality, with 92% of corporate hospitality purchasers satisfied that hospitality met the goal of aiding business relationships*.
“It’s a different environment, a different space and the conversations you will have in those spaces could actually be fundamental to how we support the business going onwards. You may end up having chats in that environment that you wouldn’t have in a normal business context.” Group Communications Manager, Financial Services
Sports hospitality is not only for business, but also perfect for individuals looking for a ‘wow factor’ and something more than just a standard ticket. You can secure your place in history and guarantee memories that will last for a lifetime. It is a valued bonding experience for friends, family and business contacts alike and you will share an experience together that you will surely not forget.
“My family and I were regally entertained throughout the day by a fantastic group of dedicated personnel. From the very beginning we have had a seamless experience with every person in the chain acting in a friendly and helpful manner, whether it was to confirm the booking, pay the invoice, relay the instructions for ticket collection, ease of ticket collection, or the smooth running of the hospitality service and guest speaker.” Individual hospitality purchaser
Sports hospitality guarantees you an experience like no other. It is by far the best way to elevate your experience with world-class dining and entertainment at global sporting events. Sign up to be first one to hear about the latest news and information on our hospitality and travel programmes. SIGN UP HERE.
* SMG YouGov survey, 2017.
