Akron Athletics launches ticket sales & service partnership with Aspire

ATLANTA, GA – The University of Akron Department of Athletics has agreed to a partnership agreement with The Aspire Sport Marketing Group for outsourced ticket sales and service, the Zips announced on Friday.

The on-site Fan Relationship Management Center (FRMC) will be responsible for new sales and retention for all Zips’ ticketed sports as well as increased philanthropic support for the Z-Fund.

“We have seen the positive impact that Aspire has helped achieve at other athletics programs, so we are naturally excited to enter into this relationship with the goal of building Zips’ nation and broadening community participation at Zips Athletics events,” said Larry Williams, Director of Athletics.

“We’re honored to have Akron join the Aspire Family,” said Bill Duffy, Chief Executive Officer at The Aspire Group. “Our FRMC model gives Akron a new way to love their fans. The increased access for Zip fans allows us to improve their purchase and customer service experience. We’re excited to show Akron fans and the community the ‘Aspire Difference.’”

Akron will have access to all of Aspire’s proprietary “Next-Practices” and the FRMC network of 43 partners and 60 Leaders.

Akron is Aspire’s fourth university partner in Ohio and fifth Mid-American Conference (MAC) member, joining Eastern Michigan, Miami (Ohio), Toledo, and Western Michigan. Ohio native Joe Kronander, Regional FRMC Director, will serve as the Aspire liaison for Akron.

About The Aspire Group
The Aspire Group is a sports and entertainment marketing firm that is globally recognized for innovative consulting, ticketing, and partnership services. Aspire created the outsourced ticket sales niche, revolutionizing collegiate athletics with the first Fan Relationship Management Center (FRMC) at Georgia Tech in 2009. Over 215 collegiate and professional sports properties have trusted Aspire to drive revenue, attendance and enterprise value growth through the combination of strategic consulting and research services, data insights, and best-in-industry fan relationship management.

For inquiries, contact A.J. Smith at 404-389-9100 or aj.smith@theaspiregroupinc.com.