Betfred’s Fred Done invests in esports publication GGIntel

Betfred founder Fred Done has made an investment in GGIntel, a start-up aimed at the emergence of esports news, entertainment and media.

The Manchester-based business is focused on providing bespoke content, global event and tournament information, as well as breaking industry updates.

The total global esports audience is estimated to be 454 million viewers, while revenues exceed $1bn annually. Esports viewership is expected to surpass 600 million this year.

Streaming platforms such as YouTube and Twitch are the most popular services, with audiences comprising of approximately 85% male and 15% female between the ages of 18 and 34.

Billionaire bookmaker and property mogul Done said: “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”.

GGIntel managing director Chris Young said the goal for GGIntel is to be the global leader in providing transparent, in-depth esports and education through engaging content. “We are already off to a blinding start, and we’ve only just begun,” he added.

The ability to target the hard-to-reach esports fan is why the likes of Coca-Cola, Mercedes-Benz, T-Mobile and Adidas have been ramping up their sponsorship commitments of late.

Gambling operators have also been investing heavily in the esports space over the past few years, with Betway the most active bookmaking brand with its high-profile sponsorships of professional teams and events.