Betfred founder and UK billionaire Fred Done has announced his investment in GGIntel, a new Manchester-based business focusing on the emergence of esports news, entertainment and media.
The start-up firm is aiming to become a world-leading esports publisher providing bespoke content, global event and tournament information and breaking industry updates to its community of fans.
Video game competitions have exploded in popularity since the early 2010s, with mega-brands such as Red Bull and ESPN becoming sponsors of multiplayer online battle arena and real-time strategy streamed events featuring titles such as League of Legends, Super Smash Bros, Counter-Strike and Overwatch. Furthermore, JD Sports has taken a serious interest in the sector via its recent JDX events in the UK.
It is estimated that the total global audience of esports is 454 million viewers, with revenues of over $1bn. By 2020, esports viewership is expected to exceed 600 million.
GGIntel managing director Chris Young said: “I am delighted to have launched GGIntel in one of the most rapidly growing and exciting industries in the world. The aim of GGIntel is to be the global leader in providing transparent, in-depth esports information and education through engaging content written and produced by experts in the field. We are already off to a blinding start and we’ve only just begun.”
Done added: “Esports is only going one way and that’s up and I’m really excited to be involved with GGIntel. I’m looking forward to working with this small but passionate team to create a unique business in an emerging sector."
