Breaking: Winnipeg Jets’ NHL Playoff Success Shines Spotlight on City, Generates Millions in Free Exposure and Economic Boost
In an electrifying season, the Winnipeg Jets’ deep run in the NHL playoffs has given the city of Winnipeg more than just hockey excitement—it’s put it firmly in the global spotlight, generating millions in free exposure and economic windfall. The popular Whiteout street parties, drawing an estimated 22,000 people per game, have transformed downtown Winnipeg into a blazing sea of white, capturing the world’s attention and resulting in 58 million views worth roughly $2 million in "earned media" alone, according to Economic Development Winnipeg. True North Sports & Entertainment spokesperson Krista Sinaisky hails the exposure as "invaluable," while Martin Fisher, CEO of Show and Tell Agency, equates it to Super Bowl-level promotion. As the Jets cruise into the second round, fans and local businesses eagerly anticipate the continued Johnny-come-lately effect, with 2018’s playoffs already driving $2.2 million in earned media and injecting over $2 million into the city’s economy.
Headline:
NHL’s Winnipeg Jets: More Than Just Hockey, A Downtown Boom and Global Spotlight
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Winnipeg Jets: downtown touchdown, global spotlight
championship run does more than fill seats and thrill fans — it’s a jackpot for the city of Winnipeg, putting its downtown on the map and generating nearly $2 million in "earned media." But what does this mean for the city’s future, and can other sports teams replicate this success?
The Power of the Whiteout
The Whiteout street parties are more than just celebrations; they’re a stage for Winnipeg to showcase its vibrancy to the world. With an estimated 20,000 attendees per game, they’re becoming an iconic global event that’s putting Winnipeg on the map — literally.
Did you know?
The Whiteout parties began in 2018, with 120,500 people attending over six weeks, generating roughly $2.2 million in earned media, according to Economic Development Winnipeg.
Economic Opportunities
So, what’s the economic impact? Martin Fisher, CEO of Show and Tell Agency, estimates that paying for such massive exposure on a TV show would cost around $2 million. In Winnipeg, it’s practically free.
Pro Tip
Economic Development Winnipeg’s partnership with 10 social media content creators from Canada and the U.S. generated 58 million views, worth about $2 million in earned media. That’s leverage!
Future Trends: Whiteout 2.0
Winnipeg’s success hints at a future where cities maximize their sports teams for tourism and economic growth. Here are a few trends we might see:
- More collaborations: Sports teams and city officials teaming up to maximize earnings — as seen in Winnipeg.
- Social media integration: Leveraging platforms to reach global audiences, Ã la Winnipeg’s content creators.
- Event evolution: Customizing events to showcase each city’s unique appeal — think New Orleans’ Mardi Gras meets NHL playoffs.
FAQs
- How much do Whiteout parties cost?
- In 2018, they cost $2,167,000, with True North Sports and Entertainment covering $1,084,000, Economic Development Winnipeg $120,000, and the City of Winnipeg $962,000.
- What’s the city’s role?
- Winnipeg provides in-kind services and assists in planning and execution, including road closures and city beautification.
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