In a strategic move to bolster brand exposure, Source Travel partners with Mansfield Town FC, marking its entry into sports sponsorship with a three-year deal.
- The agreement positions Source Travel as the official travel partner and sleeve sponsor of the newly promoted League One team, Mansfield Town FC.
- Simultaneously, Source Labs, a tech division of Source Travel, launches to offer advanced digital services to other travel agencies.
- Josh Smith, the managing director, emphasises the synergy between the club’s promotion and Source Travel’s growth aspirations.
- The partnership aims to foster closer interactions with football fans and expand Source Travel’s footprint in the competitive travel industry.
In an effort to enhance its visibility and brand presence, Source Travel has entered into a three-year partnership with Mansfield Town FC, which recently rose to League One status. The collaboration positions Source Travel as the official travel partner and sleeve sponsor for the team, highlighting a deliberate foray into the sports sector to capitalise on the club’s enhanced visibility post-promotion.
This sponsorship aligns with the launch of Source Labs, Source Travel’s newly established tech division that aims to provide cutting-edge digital solutions, such as web and app development, search engine optimisation (SEO), and social media marketing services. Source Labs targets small travel agencies seeking to improve their online presence, with services starting at £1,499.
Josh Smith, managing director of Source Travel, described the partnership as a harmonious match, stating, ‘With the club’s promotion – along with us continually looking to climb the ladder – this is a match made in heaven.’ The deal not only offers Source Travel greater exposure but also encourages football fans to explore affordable global travel options.
Adam Thornhill, co-founder of Source Travel along with Heather Fletcher, highlights the role of Source Labs in diversifying their business portfolio. After transitioning from the taxi industry and establishing the travel agency in Dubai, Thornhill and his team have focused on technology-driven growth, leveraging Thornhill’s initiative to engage with football clubs for potential collaborations.
The partnership with Mansfield Town FC illustrates a commitment to integrating more closely with fans through interactive events, such as halftime shows where winners can earn weekend stays at hotels. In doing so, Source Travel not only strengthens its relationship with fans but also promotes its travel offerings.
At the core of this strategic expansion is an intention to trial new technological advancements via their own platforms, including a forthcoming app featuring AI-driven travel planning assistance, expected to launch on October 31. This app aims to streamline destination selection and enhance user experience.
Thornhill notes the initial focus of Source Labs on independent travel agencies affiliated with Protected Trust Services (PTS), although expansion plans include targeting other consortia. PTS’s support provides a foundational market for Source Labs’ offerings, potentially increasing synergy through joint events with Mansfield Town FC.
The collaboration between Source Travel and Mansfield Town FC signifies a forward-thinking approach, merging sports engagement with digital innovation for immense growth potential.
