StubHub Becomes Everton’s Official Secondary Ticket Partner

July 23, 2012

English Premier League team, Everton FC has agreed a three-year partnership with US-based StubHub, the world’s largest ticket marketplace. 

The groundbreaking partnership is the largest commercial deal, excluding shirt sponsorship and retail, in the Club’s history and secures StubHub, owned by eBay, as the official secondary ticket partner.

Under the new deal, season ticket holders will have an official channel to sell their seat for any home fixtures that they are unable to attend.

The partnership with the Blues is one of StubHub’s first forays into the Barclays Premier League and the UK, but they bring a wealth of experience after successfully working alongside over 65 of the most prominent brands in music, media, ticketing and sport – including baseball’s Boston Red Sox.

It also marks an industry-first as there are no restrictions on pricing set by the Club or StubHub – it will be the only official marketplace where Evertonians can purchase tickets directly from other Evertonians.

Previously in the secondary ticket market, purchases were severely limited and were sold on at face value, plus service fees, but the deal allows Season Ticket holders to choose the price that they list their seat.

The Club are working closely with StubHub to offer a seamless secondary ticket selling, buying and match day experience for Blues fans. A dedicated StubHub pick-up point will be located at the Bullens Road Box Office at Goodison Park, where buyers can collect their tickets on the day of the match.

Dave Biggar, Commercial Director at Everton Football Club, said: “StubHub enters the UK market with a great track record working with major sports brands in the US. It was important for us to find a partner who takes the fan experience as seriously as we do. StubHub’s focus on service, plus the support provided online, over the phone and in person at the stadium, made it the natural choice for us.”

Brigitte Ricou-Bellan, International General Manager at StubHub added: “As a new entrant to the UK market, we are always keen to team up with powerful brands such as Everton who enjoy a passionate supporter base. We share their passion for serving fans and we look forward to working with the club to bring a best-in-class marketplace and experience to their supporters.

“This deal is ground-breaking in the industry as it removes restrictions on sales, putting the power back into the hands of the fans. We are confident that our approach to ticketing and e-commerce will be beneficial to the club, the industry, and most importantly, supporters.”

This follows StubHub recent announcement as partners of Sunderland AFC.