Gloucester Rugby has announced the next chapter in its long-standing relationship with Emerge Digital, unveiling a three-year deal that promises to redefine matchday experiences and deepen community engagement.
This latest agreement will extend the partnership to nearly a decade of working together, during which Emerge Digital has helped Gloucester Rugby transform its digital infrastructure, from installing a robust wired network and integrating big screens to relocating staff offices and upgrading team technology. This is all underpinned by ongoing managed IT support, matchday assistance, and cybersecurity solutions.
This next phase will see Gloucester Rugby and Emerge Digital both invest in the club’s premier hospitality space, the Captain’s Lounge, to boost matchday attendance by 20% this season. Beyond matchdays, it will provide a tech and conferencing venue for local businesses, charities, and community groups.
Upgrades to the lounge include an AI Fan Photo Stand, one of the UK’s first real-time AI sport photo experiences, allowing fans to generate high-quality branded images of themselves with the Gloucester Rugby Team.
Future enhancements to the Captain’s Lounge will incorporate cutting-edge features designed to elevate the overall fan experience. These improvements include a visually impressive entrance, creating an immersive experience. Additional AI-driven features will continue to roll out throughout the season aimed at enhancing conference and corporate events held in the lounge, setting a new benchmark for smart spaces in rugby.
Nigel Church, CEO of Emerge Digital, which operates across the south west and south Wales, said: “Gloucester Rugby has been a client of Emerge Digital for many years, during which time we’ve worked closely with the club as its infrastructure and technology have evolved to meet the demands of modern professional rugby. Our partnership has spanned connectivity, application development, and data reporting, supporting both day-to-day operations and initiatives designed to enhance the supporter experience.
“Building on that long-standing relationship, we’re proud to sponsor the club’s principal conferencing and hospitality space at Kingsholm Stadium. Formerly the Captain’s Lounge, the space is now known as the Emerge Digital Captain’s Lounge.
