The Espanyol proposes a turning point at a social level
The Espanyol aims for the 2015-16 season to be a turning point at a social level. After the Cornellà-El Prat effect evaporated, the club has been losing social support for five consecutive seasons, reaching a low point with 26,174 members this season. "We have been experiencing strong declines for years. This campaign is designed to grow again. After the sports season we had, where we were fighting for Europe until the end, I believe we have reached the end of the decline. The decline this season was already smaller and we have to grow," said Ramon Robert, management controller of the club. Moreover, there is an important fact: television rights. 25 percent of what each club is entitled to depends on the economic capacity and the ability to generate of each entity, and both members and stadium attendance are key aspects.
Agressive campaign titled Stick out your tongue
For this reason, the club has presented an aggressive campaign entitled Stick out your tongue, under the slogan Maravillosa Minoría (Wonderful Minorities). "Why not question the football establishment? Why can't the DNA of many people be the way of being of Espanyol? We have a peculiar way of being, rebel, tenacious, and fighting people..." explained Xavier Salvatella, communication director.
Freezing prices and loyalty rewards
Apart from the campaign philosophy, the club has decided to freeze prices for the fourth consecutive season. This means that the cheapest adult season ticket ranges from 250 euros (Cóner-Gol zone) to 1,200 euros (Palco 200). As the most significant novelty, for the first time the club will reward loyalty. In this case, it will be for attending matches and not based on the age of the membership. "There are many criteria, and this is the one we decided to apply," announced Robert. Therefore, a fan who attends 100 percent of the matches will receive a 15 percent discount on next season's season ticket, a 30 percent discount on the first team's jersey, and a free entry to the RCDE stadium tour. Those who attend at least 75 percent will receive a 10 percent discount on the next season's season ticket, a 15 percent discount on jerseys, a 50 percent discount on the RCDE Tour, and will also participate in a raffle.
Renewal campaign and benefits for members
The renewal campaign starts today online and on the 19th at the Socio Support Point at the stadium. It will run until August 31. Members who wish to change their seat can do so starting on July 21, and new memberships will begin to be processed on August 1. "Being an Espanyol member is not expensive," evaluates Robert, who points out that Perico members have up to 100 companies offering discounts to members.
New membership options
Lastly, some of the memberships that were valid this season will be transitioned, such as the Sóc RCDE membership, which will be discontinued next season. The Escuela membership will also be created so that children can enjoy discounts on merchandise and the benefits of being a member. The carnet1900 will no longer have match rights but will still enjoy member benefits.