How many franchise-based series can sport handle? Should teams and athlete be writing newsletters?

The quest to influence and monetise audiences is the core mission for much of the sports industry, and this week James Emmett and David Cushnan reflect on James’ podcast conversation with Liz Wynn, Chief Supporter Officer, at the Guardian - and in particular how the organisation has used newsletters to build direct, meaningful relationships with readers. It sparks a discussion about whether teams and athletes might be missing a trick.Elsewhere, James reports back from this week’s launch of Ultimate Sevens in London, and has the inside line on the latest disruptor on the rugby union scene and yet another example of a franchise-based sports start-up. What’s really driving these new launches across sport? And there’s just time to chat through Fifa’s big decision to swap Panini - and its sticker albums - for Fanatics.