Welcome to Extreme Investor Network, where we bring you the latest and most unique insights in the world of business news. Today, we are excited to share a groundbreaking partnership between QVC and USA Pickleball that is shaking up the sports and media industries.
In a multiyear deal, QVC, the owner of home shopping networks on TV and streaming, has acquired the exclusive broadcast rights of USA Pickleball, the national governing body of the sport. This partnership will kick off with the coverage of the 2024 Biofreeze USA Pickleball National Championships in November on QVC’s free streaming platform, QVC+/HSN+.
What sets this partnership apart is QVC’s deliberate strategy to cater to its audience of women over 50 through the rapidly growing sport of pickleball. Annette Dunleavy, QVC’s vice president of brand marketing, shared that pickleball resonates with this demographic and offers a unique way to engage with their audience.
Pickleball has been labeled as the fastest-growing sport in America, with more than 5 million women over the age of 45 actively participating in the game. The sport’s popularity has led to the expansion of pickleball courts across major cities in the U.S. and the signing of significant media rights deals, such as the partnership between the Professional Pickleball Association Tour and The Tennis Channel.
As QVC expands its streaming platform, it has been experimenting with live shows and events, recognizing the power of live sports in engaging audiences. Stacie Tedesco, vice president of streaming at Qurate Retail Group, emphasized that live sports have been a successful model in the media industry and a natural progression for QVC.
Stay tuned to Extreme Investor Network for more updates on this innovative partnership between QVC and USA Pickleball, as we continue to bring you unique insights and trends in the world of business news. Don’t miss out!