Stay in the game: How sports betting operators keep punters engaged

Keeping punters engaged
27th Aug, 2024
Simon Colmenares Author Profile Photo Simon Colmenares

Sports betting is a fiercely competitive world. It’s almost as if we see a new betting operator appearing every day. There’s no room for slowing down, and operators know that very well. Technology allowed for more competition, but at the same time, opened many doors for innovations that attract new and retain old punters.

And when it comes to marketing, sports betting operators are experts. Here’s something about how they keep punters engaged.

Multi-channel approach

One of the key strategies for operators is the adoption of a multi-channel approach. This involves providing punters with various avenues to place bets and interact with the brand. Physical locations where punters can place bets in person, as well as websites and mobile apps that offer convenient 24/7 access.

Operators are investing heavily in cutting-edge technology and web design to create user-friendly and engaging online platforms. The development of mobile apps for smartphones and tablets has further enhanced accessibility and convenience.

Operators invest a lot in television because television is still relevant when it comes to sports (not so much for other industries). It is even more relevant during live sports events where betting odds and promotions are usually included in the coverage.

Combined with the digital marketing channels which allow for more personalized and targeted campaigns, operators cover multiple angles and keep their punters engaged no matter where they are.

Promotions, bonuses and offers

Promotions, bonuses, and special offers are powerful tools, and still the most valuable asset in keeping punters engaged, but more importantly, in attracting new customers. These promotional tactics are universal to all markets, and revolve mainly around free bets, where punters are offered a risk-free opportunity to try out the platform, and cash-back offers which provide punters with a refund on their stake.

Other tactics like enhanced odds (offering more favorable odds on selected events to attract punters seeking better value), or loyalty programs that reward frequent punters with exclusive benefits and bonuses are another well-known strategy.

The (in)direct role of social media and embedded promotions

Embedded promotions and sponsorships are pervasive in sports betting. Wagering operators invest heavily in sponsoring sporting teams, events, and venues, gaining brand exposure and associating their brand with the excitement and passion of sports.

Sponsors like https://www.premierbet.com/cm/ don’t just rely on displaying logos and brand messages on billboards and team jerseys, but often integrate betting odds into televised coverage and featuring dedicated segments in sports TV shows. Embedded promotions create a sense of synergy between sports and betting, which in the end results with punters being engaged with their favorite sports betting brands.

Social media has become another vital tool for operators to engage with punters and build brand communities. Like many other businesses, operators stay engaged with their customers through the power of social media platforms, run contests and giveaways, extend brand reach and share updates and news.

Social media has proved to be one of the most powerful tools for keeping punters engaged.

Technology is king

The involvement of technology has been crucial to sports betting operators in keeping their customers interested. Mobile betting apps are a great example, because people can access them anytime and anywhere. These applications have an interface that is easy to understand, gives live updates frequently and offers different markets for users to bet on thus convenience becomes a priority.

Another thing that has gained popularity over the years is in-play betting where gamblers can bet while a game or match is going on. This feature adds an extra layer of complexity when it comes to watching sports as people are able to make predictions based on what they see happening before them.

Bookmakers also tend to include live stats, commentaries or even streaming of events through the app hence making the experience more immersive which leads to longer periods spent by punters being active. Additionally, operators send push notifications and personalized alerts so that their customers can get information about upcoming matches, special promotions or any other betting opportunities.

They time these messages strategically, knowing they have the most effect during game breaks for example.

These are just some of the strategies betting operators use to keep punters engaged. In most cases, they employ sophisticated marketing strategies and leverage technological innovations to ensure punters remain engaged and interested.

27th Aug, 2024
Simon Colmenares