Roger Hampel
Crystal Palace Football Club has proudly announced a new partnership with Enjoy Illinois, marking the tourism brand as the club’s Official Destination Partner. This exciting collaboration comes on the heels of Crystal Palace’s recent visits to Illinois, where the team participated in pre-season tours and the Stateside Cup, further solidifying the bond between the club and its growing fanbase in the United States.
Strengthening Ties with the American Audience
Crystal Palace’s connection with the United States has deepened over the past few years, thanks in part to their engaging social media presence and consistent efforts to reach out to American fans. The club’s crest, featuring the iconic American Eagle, symbolizes this transatlantic relationship, and the presence of USMNT star Chris Richards in the squad further reinforces this bond. Moreover, the club’s historic home, Selhurst Park, has even served as a filming location for the popular American TV show, Ted Lasso, further embedding the club in American pop culture.
The partnership with Enjoy Illinois is set to enhance this relationship, with the brand's logo being prominently displayed on the sleeve of Crystal Palace’s training wear. Fans attending matches at Selhurst Park can also expect to see Enjoy Illinois featured on LED boards, interview backdrops, and in-stadium TVs. The collaboration extends beyond branding, as Enjoy Illinois will sponsor the popular halftime challenge at Selhurst Park and run competitions throughout the season, giving fans the chance to win exciting prizes.
Crystal Palace’s Commitment to the U.S. Market
Crystal Palace’s ongoing commitment to the U.S. market is evident in their return to Illinois for the Premier League Mornings Live event, scheduled for September 21st and 22nd, 2024, in Chicago. This event is expected to draw thousands of fans, offering them a chance to engage with the club up close and experience the excitement of English football in an American setting.
Barry Webber, Chief Commercial Officer of Crystal Palace, expressed his enthusiasm for the partnership, stating: “As a club, we are hugely appreciative of the support we receive from the US, and we’re delighted to announce this partnership with Enjoy Illinois after our warm welcome in Chicago last season.” Webber highlighted the significance of this collaboration in expanding the club’s brand and engaging with fans across the Atlantic.
Illinois: A Premier Destination for Global Visitors
Illinois has become an increasingly popular destination for international tourists, with the state welcoming 2.16 million international visitors in 2023 alone. The United Kingdom remains one of Illinois’ top five markets, making this partnership a strategic move to attract even more British tourists. Daniel Thomas, Deputy Director of the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, Office of Tourism, shared his excitement, noting that Illinois is the number five sports market in the U.S., and this collaboration provides a unique opportunity to showcase the state’s vibrant sports culture, diverse cities, and natural beauty to a global audience.
Thomas added, “As we gear up for the football season, we’re eager to welcome Crystal Palace fans to discover Illinois' world-class sports entertainment, our vibrant city of Chicago, and diverse culture, all while getting your ‘kicks’ on Route 66 and enjoying our small-town charm and thrilling outdoor adventures.”
A Winning Partnership for Fans and Tourism
This partnership between Crystal Palace and Enjoy Illinois is more than just a branding exercise; it’s a celebration of the shared passion between fans and the club, and a gateway for Crystal Palace supporters to explore the rich culture and exciting opportunities that Illinois has to offer. As the 2024 season unfolds, this collaboration promises to bring fans closer to the action, both on and off the pitch, while highlighting Illinois as a premier destination for sports enthusiasts and travelers alike.
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