A steady stream of Macarthur FC fans flowed into the club’s “experience store’’ on the third floor of Macarthur Square around lunch time today.
Not surprisingly, many were enquiring about the cow bells, which have already made the Bulls famous.
The state of the art retail and fan engagement centre was officially launched yesterday and it is worth a visit, whether you’re a Macarthur FC fan or not.
It’s the first of its kind for any major sporting club of any code in Australia, because as well as club merchandise it offers jersey customisation, a café, an artificial turf mini stadium and a dedicated E-Sports Zone.
The mini stadium will be available for elite skill sessions, children’s birthday parties, and community football clinics.
The Bulls are also catering for the rapidly expanding online gaming world with the store featuring a dedicated E-Sports Zone, allowing fans to challenge each other in FIFA21, playing in their favourite club colours.
Spanning over 300 square metres of floor space, the Macarthur FC Experience Store will also host major club announcements and media conferences in the dedicated press area.
When not in use, this area will be another way for young members and fans to interact with the club, by giving them the opportunity to simulate being their favourite Macarthur FC player and address the press pack.
Macarthur FC Member #3162 Craig Darragh was obviously impressed after attending the official opening: “The store is fantastic! Very modern and a massive point of difference from standard merchandise outlets,’’ he said.
“The kids love it. It is very interactive and makes you feel connected to the club.
“With the media zone for the kids to pretend to be a player or have a kick around on the pitch, this is a really cool shop the whole family can enjoy.”
Trevor Hill, Macarthur Square centre manager, was equally effusive about the opening of the store.
“We are delighted to welcome Macarthur FC to Macarthur Square as the home of the Bulls, and to be the exclusive location of the club’s first retail experience store,’’ said Trevor Hill, Macarthur Square centre manager.
“The store will provide not only the ability to purchase supporter merchandise, but also the unique opportunity to engage with the club with many activities planned for the space.
“We look forward to continuing our partnership with Macarthur FC and providing new and exciting experiences for fans, customers and retailers together.”
