Watford Football Club and MrQ establish long-lasting partnership agreement in Hertfordshire
In a move that has shaken up the English Football League, MrQ has been announced as the new principal partner of Watford FC for the 2023/24 season and beyond. This partnership marks a significant step for the iGaming industry, as MrQ, a challenger brand known for its comedic TV advertising campaigns and unique approach to welcome offers and bonuses, steps into the world of football sponsorship.
The partnership, which is a record-breaking deal for a club in the English Football League, has not been met with universal approval. The ongoing conversation around gambling sponsors on the front of soccer shirts has sparked debate, with some critics expressing concerns about the association. However, Paul O'Brien, commercial director of Watford FC, has spoken on behalf of the club, stating that MrQ "does their business right."
MrQ's logo, a blue "MrQ Casino" mark, may not fully reflect Watford FC’s values or preferred aesthetic, indicating some tension about typical gambling sponsorship appearances. Yet, MrQ attempts a slightly different visual brand identity compared to traditional gambling sponsors, setting itself apart in the world of football sponsorship.
While the design of the logo may be a point of contention, MrQ's strong values, including fairness, value, and craftsmanship, are central to its brand identity. The company is independently owned and based in St Albans, further emphasising its commitment to local roots.
One area where MrQ truly stands out is in its welcome offer. Unlike many other gambling brands, MrQ's welcome offer does not have wagering requirements. New customers can enjoy a first deposit granting 20 free spins on the game Book of Dead, with all winnings uncapped and credited as real money.
Moreover, MrQ proactively intervenes when signs of problem gambling are detected in its data streams, positioning itself as a sponsor that reflects strong core values in its practices. MrQ wants to go beyond simply getting the brand on the front of soccer shirts. It is committed to playing a role in the local community as part of its partnership with Watford FC.
In summary, MrQ's uniqueness as Watford FC’s sponsor currently lies primarily in its branding style and the club’s notable openness about the sponsorship logo's fit with club values, rather than any clearly outlined innovative features or responsible gambling differentiators. However, the company's commitment to fair play, local roots, and responsible gambling practices, as well as its record-breaking sponsorship deal, make it a challenging force to be reckoned with in the iGaming industry.
In the realm of business, this record-breaking sponsorship deal between MrQ and Watford FC extends beyond the football field, marking a substantial entrance of the iGaming industry into the world of sports, specifically football and soccer. Despite some criticisms surrounding gambling sponsors in sports, MrQ's stance on responsible gambling and strong commitment to fairness and value distinguish it as a unique player in the iGaming industry.
