Discovery Sport Industry Summit shows business of sport still lustrous

Discovery Sport Industry Summit shows business of sport still lustrous

The issue of shared value in the South African and global sport industry came under the spotlight today at the 2015 Discovery Sport Industry Summit held at Vodaworld Dome, Johannesburg.

Now in its fourth year, the Discovery Sport Industry Summit provides a rare opportunity for leading figures from the nation's top brands, governing bodies and athletic organisations to discuss, debate, network and share best practice on all aspects of the South African sport industry.

“The sport industry is beginning to focus on creating value at a broader community level, which is improving development sport and building the talent of young people,” said Robin Peterson, CEO of SAFA Development Trust, speaking on the future on sport marketing and major events.

A key international guest this year was David Grevemberg. Responsible for the 2014 Glasgow Commonwealth Games and now CEO of the Commonwealth Games Federation, David reflected on the success of the Games in Glasgow, which he delivered £25m under budget.

He expressed his excitement in seeing South Africa on a global stage with its ability to host world-class events. “Durban is the perfect Commonwealth partner and this brand alignment will have a major impact, both locally and globally. Africa is a great next step for this journey,” he said looking forward to 20 Commonwealth Wealth Games to be hosted in Durban.

Grevemberg commented on the expansion of the Commonwealth Games beyond its British heritage into a global phenomenon with the power to deliver genuine economic and social impact.

Part of the success he attributed to his experience was the efficient management of budgets and the fact that sponsorship budgets should be meaningfully spent.

Advertising and brand expert, Andy Rice, explained that creativity and an understanding of the consumer is critical to sport marketing and campaigning. Rice emphasised that sport marketing is becoming less about the ‘product’ and more about putting a brand campaign in the context of a consumer’s life.

Other speakers included Lance Walker, Director of Performance at Michael Johnson Performance, who joined a panel to tackle the issue of technology driving innovation. Doug Ryder, having led MTN Qhubeka through the Tour de Franceearlier this year contextualised the years of investment in technology which had led to the team becoming the first African team to join the competitive international cycling world.

Another example of innovation to fan based sport was introduced by South African born entrepreneur Neven Murugan whose smart-phone app and technology are due to bring cheers replicated from supporters around the globe live into stadiums at major football matches.

The day was concluded with a panel discussion on the history and future of the South African Sport Industry and the increasingly important role sport sponsorships is playing both for corporates in achieving brand awareness and developing athletes from all walks of life.

ENDS

Note to editors:

For media related questions and images please contact Taryn Kerr

tarynke@discovery.co.za

011 529 2204

About the Discovery Sport Industry Group

The Sport Industry Group is a networking organisation that sits at the heart of sport, and is the organiser of the Discovery Sport Industry Awards and the Discovery Sport Industry Summit, both held in Johannesburg. Through editorial and video content and a series of exclusive events, the Sport Industry Group looks to scrutinize the bad and celebrate the best, setting the agenda for the world’s most dynamic industry.

About The Discovery Sport Industry Awards

Held each year, the Discovery Sport Industry Awards showcase and reward the industry’s very best work, from a whole host of sports, brands, agencies and rights holders. Spanning marketing, PR, sponsorship, talent management, advertising, community investment, social media and branding, the industry will come together to celebrate the very best in class at South Africa’s most prestigious awards ceremony for sport and business.