March 24, 2008

The Grizzlies are far from securing a fourth playoff berth. But they will make certain season-ticket holders are elatedly rewarded for supporting the franchise through the highs and lows.

Starting this week, the Griz will seek season-ticket renewals for the 2008-09 season with a "True Loyalty" campaign aimed at recognizing a fan's long-standing partnership with the team.

That means more access, additional perks and a choice of extraordinary gifts with the expressed goal of retaining 80 percent of current season-ticket holders and perhaps reclaiming the franchise's high mark of 11,000-plus. In short, the Griz are counting on their most aggressive renewal plan to be viewed as an uncontested layup.

"This isn't a one-year fix," said Mike Redlick, executive vice president of business operations. "It's a Grizzlies promise. We want fans to know that we appreciate you being with us through thick and thin."

How serious are the Grizzlies about enticing their most loyal customers to stay on board through a rebuilding phase? Inserted in four randomly selected season-ticket renewal packets will be a trip for two to join the team on a road trip either April 6 at Minnesota or April 11 at Miami. The winners will travel with the team on its charter flight and stay in its hotel.

That's just the tip of the iceberg.

No ticket prices will increase next season. In fact, 4,500 seat prices will decrease, making it more affordable for season-ticket holders to upgrade. And the longer you've supported the Grizzlies, the more benefits you'll receive. The Griz have perks designed for veterans (two to four years as a season-ticket holder), All-Stars (five to seven years) and legends (eight-plus years).

"People want to be rewarded for their loyalty," Redlick said, adding that the Grizzlies took to heart feedback from their Fan Advisory Board.

To attract new customers, the Griz will offer 6,000 Terrace Level season tickets at $10 per game for next season. That's in addition to the 500 $5 season tickets they already offer.

The franchise, however, already has paid special attention to its current customers. Season-ticket holders have received MVP badges as part of the team's upgrade and spotlight series.

Upon renewal, season-ticket holders will receive benefits such as special-access concession stands, a separate box-office window, merchandise discounts and early admission to the arena on game days.

"With the blue velvet ropes and signage, think of (the concessions) as first-class access (for frequent flyers) at the airport," said Dennis O'Connor, vice president of ticket sales and service.

John Pugliese, senior director of marketing, said the Grizzlies will have a tent at the World Championship Barbecue Cooking Contest exclusively for Grizzly season-ticket holders. He pointed out that season-ticket holders will have separate lounge at games, too.

"This is more based on tenure even if your seat is in the terrace," Pugliese said.

One reward that stands out is for the fan who renews for an eighth season in Memphis. Among other things, that fan will receive a subscription for the NBA's League Pass to watch the Griz on television where they play.

"We feel like this type of loyalty program can grow," Redlick said. "We listened to our fans, and say thank you as well as make it as affordable as possible."

The renewal deadline is April 18.

True rewards

The Grizzlies will publicly recognize and reward your loyalty at games throughout the upcoming season. But until then, they will offer season-ticket holders the chance to choose a renewal gift. Renew by April 18, and pick from the following:

Floor-seat holders

Griz road trip: Pack your gym bag and hop on the team charter for a 2008-09 road games. Includes airfare, hotel, and game tickets for two.

Framed autographed jersey: An authentic home jersey professionally framed and autographed by the Grizzlies player of your choice.

VIP suite night: Catch a Grizzlies home game with up to 24 friends in an exclusive party suite stocked with food and drinks.