Seattle-based startup Zipwhip, which enables existing landline phones to send and receive text messages, has announced a partnership with the Timbers. The company will provide direct consumer-to-business texting regarding ticket sales and renewals for the MLS club, as well as in-game services and customer feedback. From the Timbers' standpoint, their service department will now be able to provide conversational texting in order to reach unresponsive accounts, comply with payment plan efforts, send special event reminders, confirm renewals and fill last-minute seats at Providence Park. Zipwhip CMO John Larson said the contract for the software is month-to-month and was negotiated in-house without any third parties. The service will be promoted live at games, online, through advertisements for engagement, voicemail and email. Zipwhip counts several pro teams and colleges as clients, including the Falcons, Islanders, Nets and Earthquakes. Larson said, “Why can’t consumers naturally text a business? If you’re a season-ticket holder, why can’t you just text in and ask a question? As far as fan loyalty, there is nothing easier and more familiar to a consumer than to send a text. Professional sports teams have really taken a hold of this because they are looking for any way possible to provide a rich customer experience.”
