Sharks CEO Shaun Bryans discusses the impact of SharksFest and new partnerships

Shaun Bryans, CEO of Sharks, discussed the impact of SharksFest and the new partnerships the club has formed. He emphasized that the Sharks have always provided more than just a rugby game for their fans, with tailgate parties and braais being a staple of their events. However, Bryans noted that the popularity of fans attending live games had been declining since around 2021, likely due to technological advancements and the growing competition for leisure activities.

To address this, the club has introduced SharksFest, which combines music and other entertainment to attract a younger audience and keep older fans engaged. Bryans also highlighted that by creating a lively, party-like atmosphere, they aim to attract more people to the games and foster a sense of community. The club's partnerships are seen as crucial for their growth, particularly through revenue generated from sponsorships and collaborations.

Recently, the Sharks have welcomed Volkswagen as their automotive partner and are pleased to welcome Reebok back as a merchandise provider, a move they believe will significantly boost their merchandise sales. Additionally, the club has announced a rebranding initiative, "Black, White Forever," which includes new badges and a renewed focus on their identity.