Entain, through its flagship sports betting brand Coral, has been at the forefront of leveraging cutting-edge technology to enhance fan engagement.
Coral’s VR Experience:
Spearheaded by Coral, in collaboration with JockeyCam, the VR experience places fans in the saddle, offering a simulated riding experience where they can compete against virtual counterparts. This initiative aims not only to captivate fans but also to elevate their interaction with horseracing events, thereby driving deeper engagement.
Touring the UK:
The VR experience is set to tour the UK, making appearances at various Coral-sponsored events throughout 2022. Next on its itinerary is the Newcastle Races on Good Friday, promising attendees an immersive journey into the world of horseracing.
Commitment to Innovation:
Coral’s investment in groundbreaking horseracing promotions underscores its commitment to innovation. Previously, the brand captivated audiences with a 3D display at London’s Piccadilly Circus during the Cheltenham Festival, demonstrating its dedication to pushing the boundaries of fan experience.
Financial Considerations:
While such initiatives undoubtedly entail significant financial investments, they also represent a strategic move to position Coral and Entain as leaders in the sports betting and gaming industry. The expenses incurred are viewed as worthwhile, given the tangible returns in terms of increased customer engagement and brand visibility.
Impact on Customer Engagement:
Entain’s Q1 2022 update revealed a substantial increase in active customers during the Cheltenham week, with numbers surging by over 40% compared to 2020. This surge underscores the potency of immersive experiences in driving customer engagement and loyalty within the UK sports betting market.
Insights from Dominic Grounsell:
Dominic Grounsell, Deputy Managing Director Digital at Entain, highlights the power of combining core customer offerings with immersive experiences. He emphasizes the exciting opportunity to connect with both new and existing customers through innovative and engaging initiatives, positioning Entain’s brands at the forefront of industry evolution.
Tech-Forward Initiatives Across Brands:
Entain’s commitment to innovation extends beyond Coral, with other brands within its portfolio launching tech-forward customer interactions. Ladbrokes, for instance, introduced the “Ladbrokes Amplify” initiative, catering to football fans by offering music streaming content and exclusive access to gigs and events.
Entain’s embrace of cutting-edge technology and immersive experiences marks a significant stride forward in the sports betting and gaming landscape. Through initiatives like Coral’s VR experience and Ladbrokes’ Amplify, Entain is not only enriching fan engagement but also reshaping the future of customer interactions in the industry. As the journey continues, Entain remains poised to lead the way in delivering innovative and captivating experiences to audiences worldwide.