MLB Team Puts Fans First, Softens Economic Blow

You read that right.

Earlier today, CNN Money posted an article discussing the current economic situation’s impact on sports, in particular baseball, and, more specifically, the Arizona Diamondbacks. With financial uncertainty plaguing many Americans, many sports fans are cutting corners by going to less games and buying less merchandise. The article talks about a woman named Jackie Smiley, a devoted Diamondbacks fan who has, to date, attended every home game. And although the 59 year old retired computer consultant would like to keep her impressive streak alive, she has determined that, in these unpredictable economic times, that she cannot justify doling out five grand for the tickets.

Many teams in all professional sports are dealing with customers like Jackie Smiley; however, the Diamondbacks have taken a different approach to keeping their fans. Derrick Hall, CEO of the organization, has cornered the market on customer service. He personally called Smiley and worked out a compromise where she would be able to maintain her season tickets and not have to spend more money that she was comfortable with – Hall has set up a situation where Smiley can split the cost of the package with another holder. Although this seems like a rather simplistic solution, many organizations would not have worked so closely with their fans to ensure their happiness by compromising. In fact, many other teams are struggling with their fan base because of outrageous personal seat licenses (PSLs) that must be bought in order to maintain their seats. Such is not the case with Arizona’s management, which is also offering upper-deck seats for as little as $5 and has lowered the cost of concessions for children (hot dogs and popcorn will be as low as $1.50). Finally, Arizona fans will also get a break at the souvenir stand, and can buy hats and t-shirts for $8, roughly a third of the cost as many other pro team’s in-stadium shops.

At a time when many organizations, sports organizations included, are trying to squeeze an extra buck out of consumers at each and every turn, this story about the Arizona Diamondbacks keeping the fan at center or the organization (as it should be) is refreshing.

For those of you who find this posting (I have yet to optimize this site through search engines), I’d be curious to learn how the current economic downturn will be affecting your summer trips to the ballpark. Will you be going less frequently than normal? Will you go the same amount but cut back on concessions and souvenirs? All feedback is welcome.[ad][ad][ad#ad-1-1][ad][ad]