MLS: Austin FC Has an Artsy Advantage In Terms of Merch

Read Time:2 Minute, 6 Second

Art is a universal language. Its popularity has spawned galleries all over the world. Different participants and or even mediums exist in this vast universe. Marketing happens to be a very lucrative byproduct. Top brands don’t exist without it. Think Apple, Tesla, and L’Oréal. Understandably sports teams are continuing to implement similar strategies. One of those teams plays in the MLS.

Marketing is capable of setting pro sports teams apart. Some are better at it than others. New MLS member Austin FC has proven that they possess a strong understanding. Previous submissions of mine have mentioned promotion and marketing. Including one reference to the Longhorns Network. Evidently, there is a common theme.

If you want to thrive as a sports team, understanding your strengths and weaknesses is critical. Outputting success is the equivalent of installing a fan. Increased placement equates to increased output. Boston mastered this formula when their various teams dominated the sports world for several years. Strong sports cities are known for A. being competitive in multiple sports and B. featuring a distinct identity and or home-field advantage.

Green Bay features brutally cold weather. Some college universities are known for enabling fans to be seated close to opposing players. Even Micheal Jordan’s golf course features a home team advantage. These dynamics contribute to a location’s strong personality and can reflect the characteristics of its local inhabitants.

When you play in a city known for something it can affect you. Austin sports teams are no different. It is historically known for its local creativity. Local artists such as Willie Nelson and Jennifer Balkan contributed. Now the local soccer team is continuing a proud tradition.

According to various articles, their new stadium, Q2 Stadium, will feature local art. Plus plans to convert this art into merchandise exist. Based on current trends NFT’s could also be included in the mix. Maybe they will opt for a physical/ digital mix. Like what Gary V is doing with Jeff Staples. Merch is definitely a potentially lucrative avenue for any sports team.

The popularity of digital goods has been trending upwards. Aka the digital variation of merch. Meaning Austin couldn’t have picked a better timing to join the league. In the long run, the club is capable of painting a beautiful picture. Currently, they are beginning to paint off the pitch. Doing the same on the pitch will equate to a perfectly painted future. It will be very fascinating to discover how the painting turns out.