Manchester United to launch social network

By By Frank Chung | 2 November 2011
 
Image source: Wikimedia Commons.

Manchester United Football Club is planning to launch its own branded social media platform in an attempt to leverage its estimated 500 million fans worldwide.

As reported by Brand Republic, the club is working with interactive agency SapientNitro to design and build a global platform offering multimedia content, advertising and sponsorship opportunities for brands.

A spokesperson for SapientNitro Sydney could not comment on the project but AdNews understands none of the agency's Australian offices will be involved.

The current Premier League champions have sponsorship arrangements with brands including Nike, Aon, DHL Express, Audi and Budweiser.

Users will be able to access exclusive content such as videos of star players, as well as buy club merchandise and other items through an e-commerce function.

The platform is set to roll out in stages over the next two years, with the goal of tapping into the club's growing Asian fanbase where smartphone use is on the rise.

Manchester United's official Facebook page currently has over 20 million 'likes'.

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