The events and hospitality team at Northampton Saints prides itself on the quality of hospitality guests enjoy on matchdays at Franklin’s Gardens.
But while the focus remains on delivering unbeatable rugby experiences and helping to create memories that last a lifetime, what is also recognised is the importance of creating valuable bonds between guests.
Many customers already use the diverse range of one-off or seasonal packages to entertain their current or prospective clients, as well as business partners, and increasingly Saints’ inventive approach to hospitality is delivering a return on investment for them.
Over 80% of people who purchase corporate hospitality in the UK believe it is extremely effective at improving relations with their clients – meanwhile 71% of those who attend as guests admit they are likely to increase the amount they spend with that company as a result.
“Making connections, building relationships and general networking are some of the most valuable and yet often under-appreciated aspects of professional life,” said Northampton Saints’ Head of Sales, Ed Turnham.
“Meeting face-to-face in a relaxed and exciting environment really builds a whole new level of trust and rapport when talking business – we have seen that Franklin’s Gardens provides the perfect backdrop for our guests to enhance their professional relationships, and we are only too happy to help them ‘wow’ their clients in any way we can.
“In taking your clients to a top-level sporting event, you may just be enabling them to witness a moment in history, and that is an experience that they will never forget!
“So, whether our guests are hoping to make a great first impression, nurture relationships they already have, or look to differentiate their business from the competition, we believe that taking advantage of our award-winning hospitality at Franklin’s Gardens is a perfect way to go the
extra mile.”
A unique experience
The Directors’ Experience at Franklin’s Gardens promises an all-encompassing day of hospitality, allowing guests to mingle with some of Northampton Saints’ players – both past and present – as well as the club’s Directors and other like-minded individuals and business owners.
With access to this ultra-exclusive space both before and after the match, guests can take advantage of the opportunity for high-level networking while enjoying a superb locally-sourced meal and complimentary drinks throughout.
Guests will take in the action on the pitch from premium padded seats, the very best the stadium has to offer, located right on the halfway line.
And with a range of other benefits to enjoy, such as dining at the Player’s Table, VIP parking, access to international tickets and signed memorabilia, the stage is set for a successful day before a ball is even kicked.
“Having been around rugby all my life, playing it and then watching as a fan, Saints is different from any club I’ve ever been to,” said Ian Stimpson, Managing Director at Gesture Investments Ltd.
“Franklin’s Gardens has a fantastically friendly, family-orientated atmosphere – I’ve met some really interesting people, both in terms of other guests and the club’s staff who have welcomed me in, and it’s been great to strike up so many new friendships.
“But there have also been several spin-offs on the professional side of things, with business relationships growing out of matchdays as well. I’ve taken many of my own clients to matches, and my son intends to do the same this coming season.
“I have been able to introduce my guests to international rugby players after we’ve had a drink and a meal and watched the game.
“To be able to rub shoulders and have conversations with the likes of Dan Biggar, Courtney Lawes and Tom Wood, you just can’t get that experience anywhere else! It’s a fantastic tool to have in the box, so I could not recommend it highly enough.”
Hospitality does not always need to cost the earth and Franklin’s Gardens boasts a huge variety of flexible offerings designed to suit groups of all shapes, sizes and budgets.
To register your interest or receive more information on any of Northampton Saints’ hospitality packages, visit www.northamptonsaints.co.uk/hospitality or contact
sales@northamptonsaints.co.uk
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