World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. (WWE)

Key Partnerships

In order to maintain its position as a leader in sports entertainment, WWE has established key partnerships with various entities in the industry. These partnerships play a crucial role in the company's success and growth.

• USA Network: The long-standing partnership with USA Network has allowed WWE to reach a wide audience in the United States through programs such as Monday Night Raw and SmackDown Live.
• FOX: WWE's partnership with FOX has expanded its reach and audience, with SmackDown Live now airing on this major network.

• WWE Network: WWE's own streaming service allows fans to access pay-per-view events and exclusive content, creating an additional revenue stream for the company.
• Traditional pay-per-view providers: Partnerships with traditional pay-per-view providers ensure that fans without access to WWE Network can still watch major events.

• Madison Square Garden: WWE has a long-standing partnership with this iconic venue, hosting numerous events that have become historic within the industry.
• AT&T Stadium: Partnerships with venues such as AT&T Stadium allow WWE to host large-scale events like WrestleMania, attracting fans from around the world.

• Tapout: The partnership with Tapout has allowed WWE to expand its reach in the fitness and apparel industry, with co-branded merchandise appealing to fans and athletes alike.
• WWEShop: The company's official online store partners with various distributors to ensure that fans can access a wide range of WWE merchandise worldwide.

• Sky Sports: Partnership with Sky Sports ensures that WWE programming reaches a global audience, with exclusive broadcasts in the UK and Europe.
• Ten Sports: This partnership allows WWE to expand its reach in Asia and the Middle East, tapping into new markets and engaging with fans around the world.

Key Activities

Live event production: WWE organizes and produces live events all around the world, including weekly television shows, pay-per-view events, and house shows. These events are a crucial aspect of the company's business model, providing fans with entertaining content while generating revenue through ticket sales and merchandise.

TV show production for different wrestling brands: WWE produces multiple weekly television shows, such as Raw, SmackDown, NXT, and 205 Live, each catering to different segments of the wrestling audience. These shows are broadcast on various networks and streaming platforms, helping to expand the company's reach and generate advertising revenue.

Talent development and management: WWE invests heavily in developing and managing its roster of professional wrestlers. This includes recruiting new talent, providing training and skill development programs, and managing contracts and negotiations with wrestlers. Talent development is crucial to ensuring a high-quality product and maintaining audience interest.

Merchandising and licensing: WWE has a robust merchandising and licensing operation, selling a wide range of products including apparel, toys, video games, and collectibles. The company also licenses its brand for use in a variety of products and promotions, further expanding its reach and revenue streams.

Marketing and global promotion: WWE engages in extensive marketing and promotional activities to reach a global audience and build its brand. This includes traditional advertising, social media campaigns, partnerships with other brands, and special events. By promoting its product effectively, WWE is able to attract new fans and retain existing ones.

Key Resources

Wrestlers and on-screen talent: WWE's roster of wrestlers and on-screen talent are crucial resources for the company. These individuals are the face of the brand and play a vital role in attracting and retaining viewers.

Brand equity and intellectual property: WWE has built a strong brand over the years, with iconic logos, catchphrases, and characters that resonate with fans. This brand equity and intellectual property are valuable resources that set WWE apart from its competitors.

Production facilities and equipment: WWE operates state-of-the-art production facilities and equipment to create high-quality content for its audience. This includes sound stages, editing bays, and advanced camera equipment.

Content library and archives: WWE has an extensive content library and archives that include decades worth of matches, events, and other programming. This content is not only a valuable historical archive but also serves as a source of revenue through licensing and merchandising.

Online streaming platforms like WWE Network: WWE Network is a key resource for the company, providing fans with access to live events, original series, and a vast library of on-demand content. The streaming platform has become a significant revenue stream for the company and helps to reach a global audience.

Value Propositions

World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. (WWE) offers a range of value propositions to its customers to differentiate itself in the competitive wrestling entertainment industry.

• High-quality wrestling entertainment: WWE is known for its top-notch professional wrestling matches featuring some of the most talented athletes in the world. The company prides itself on delivering high-caliber performances that keep fans coming back for more.
• Diverse wrestling programs catering to different audience segments: WWE offers a variety of wrestling programs tailored to different demographics, including flagship shows like Monday Night Raw and SmackDown, as well as niche programs like NXT and 205 Live. This diverse range of content ensures that there is something for everyone to enjoy.
• Engaging and dynamic storylines: WWE is renowned for its captivating storytelling, featuring intricate plotlines and character arcs that keep fans invested in the product. The company excels at creating drama and suspense to keep audiences on the edge of their seats.
• Live event experiences: WWE provides fans with the opportunity to attend live wrestling events, which offer a unique and immersive experience that cannot be replicated through television or streaming services. These events allow fans to interact with their favorite wrestlers and be a part of the action.
• Exclusive content through subscription services: WWE offers exclusive content through its subscription services, such as the WWE Network, which provides access to pay-per-view events, original programming, documentaries, and more. Subscribers can enjoy a vast library of content and watch live events from anywhere in the world.

By focusing on these value propositions, WWE is able to attract and retain a loyal fan base, drive revenue through ticket sales and merchandise, and maintain its status as a leader in the wrestling entertainment industry.

Customer Relationships

When it comes to customer relationships, World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. (WWE) goes above and beyond to engage with fans and provide them with a personalized experience. Here are some key elements of WWE's customer relationships:

• Fan engagement through social media and online platforms: WWE leverages popular social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram to connect with fans on a daily basis. By sharing behind-the-scenes content, wrestler updates, and exclusive interviews, WWE keeps fans engaged and interested in the product.
• Personalized content delivery via WWE Network: The WWE Network allows fans to access exclusive content, live events, and original programming on a subscription basis. By providing personalized recommendations based on fan preferences, WWE ensures that each fan gets a tailored viewing experience.
• Fan clubs and loyalty programs: WWE offers fan clubs and loyalty programs that provide special perks and rewards to dedicated fans. These programs often include access to exclusive merchandise, VIP events, and early ticket sales for WWE shows.
• Meet and greet events with wrestlers: WWE organizes meet and greet events with wrestlers in various cities around the world. This allows fans to meet their favorite stars face-to-face, take photos, and get autographs, creating a memorable experience for fans.
• Customer service for merchandise and ticket sales: WWE provides excellent customer service for merchandise and ticket sales through its official website and customer hotline. Fans can easily purchase tickets to live events, buy WWE merchandise, and get assistance with any issues they may encounter.

Channels

WWE utilizes various channels to distribute its content to a global audience:

• Television broadcasts: WWE partners with major television networks around the world to broadcast its weekly shows such as Raw, SmackDown, and NXT. This channel reaches millions of viewers each week and is a key revenue generator for the company.
• Online streaming via WWE Network: WWE launched its own streaming service, WWE Network, in 2014. Subscribers gain access to live pay-per-view events, original programming, and an extensive library of past matches. This direct-to-consumer platform has been a game-changer for the company, offering fans a more affordable and convenient way to consume their favorite content.
• Live touring events worldwide: WWE organizes live events in various cities around the world, providing fans with the opportunity to experience the action in person. These events not only serve as a way to connect with fans but also generate revenue through ticket sales, merchandise, and concessions.
• Social media platforms: WWE leverages popular social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and YouTube to engage with fans, share content, and promote upcoming events. These platforms help reach a younger demographic and drive viewership to its other channels.
• Official WWE website and mobile apps: The official WWE website and mobile apps serve as hubs for fans to access news, updates, and exclusive content. Fans can purchase tickets, merchandise, and subscriptions to the WWE Network, further driving revenue for the company.

Customer Segments

The customer segments for WWE can be categorized into different groups:

• Wrestling and sports entertainment fans: This segment consists of individuals who are passionate about wrestling and enjoy watching live events, pay-per-view matches, and following their favorite wrestlers.
• Young adults and children: WWE attracts a younger audience including children and teenagers who are drawn to the colorful characters, high-energy matches, and engaging storylines.
• Collectors of wrestling merchandise: There is a dedicated group of fans who collect wrestling memorabilia such as action figures, t-shirts, championship belts, and autographed merchandise.
• Corporate sponsors and advertisers: Companies looking to reach a large audience of engaged fans through sponsorship deals, product placements, and advertisements during WWE programming.
• Media distribution partners: WWE works with various media partners to distribute its content through television networks, streaming platforms, and digital channels to reach a global audience.

Value Proposition

WWE offers a unique blend of sports entertainment that combines athleticism, drama, and storytelling to create compelling programming that appeals to a wide range of audiences.

• Live Events: WWE produces live events that provide fans with an immersive experience, featuring high-energy matches, pyrotechnics, and interactive fan engagement.
• Television Programs: WWE produces weekly television shows such as Raw and SmackDown that showcase in-ring action, backstage segments, and ongoing storylines to keep fans engaged.
• Merchandise: WWE creates and sells a wide range of merchandise including t-shirts, action figures, replica championship belts, and other collectibles for fans to show their support for their favorite wrestlers.
• Digital Content: WWE offers a subscription-based streaming service, WWE Network, that provides access to live events, exclusive programming, documentaries, and an extensive library of past matches and shows.
• Community Engagement: WWE engages with fans through social media, fan clubs, special events, and charity initiatives to build a loyal fan base and give back to the community.

Channels

WWE utilizes various channels to reach its customer segments and deliver its value proposition:

• Television Networks: WWE partners with major television networks such as USA Network and Fox to broadcast its weekly shows and pay-per-view events to a wide audience.
• Live Events: WWE tours globally, hosting live events in arenas and stadiums to provide fans with the opportunity to see their favorite wrestlers perform in person.
• WWE Network: WWE's streaming service offers fans access to exclusive content, live events, and a vast library of archival footage through a subscription-based model.
• Merchandise Stores: WWE sells merchandise through its online store, at live events, and through retail partnerships with stores such as Walmart, Target, and Hot Topic.
• Social Media and Digital Platforms: WWE engages with fans through social media platforms such as Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube to share news, behind-the-scenes content, and connect with its fan base.

Revenue Streams

WWE generates revenue through various streams based on its core business activities:

• Live Events: Ticket sales, merchandise sales, and concessions at live events contribute to WWE's revenue stream.
• Television Rights: WWE secures deals with television networks for broadcasting its weekly programming and pay-per-view events, generating substantial revenue through licensing fees.
• WWE Network Subscriptions: Subscription fees from WWE Network subscribers provide a recurring revenue stream for the company.
• Merchandise Sales: Sales of WWE merchandise such as t-shirts, action figures, and championship belts contribute to the company's revenue stream.
• Advertising and Sponsorship: Corporate sponsors and advertisers pay for ad placements during WWE programming, as well as sponsorships for events and wrestlers, generating revenue for the company.

Cost Structure

Within the business model canvas of World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc. (WWE), the cost structure is a key component that outlines the various expenses associated with running the organization. These costs can be divided into several categories:

• Talent Salaries and Training Costs: One of the major expenses for WWE is the salaries paid to its roster of professional wrestlers, including both full-time performers and part-time stars. In addition to salaries, WWE also incurs costs for training new talent and providing ongoing development opportunities for its existing roster.
• Production and Event Setup Costs: WWE stages a variety of live events and television productions throughout the year, each of which requires significant resources for production and setup. This includes expenses for venue rentals, staging, lighting, sound, pyrotechnics, and other production elements.
• Marketing and Promotional Expenses: To promote its brand and events, WWE invests heavily in marketing and promotional activities. This includes advertising campaigns, social media outreach, merchandise development, and partnerships with other brands and organizations.
• Licensing and Legal Fees: As a global entertainment company, WWE maintains a strong focus on licensing its brand and intellectual property for various products and partnerships. This involves legal fees for negotiating and enforcing licensing agreements, as well as costs associated with protecting its trademarks and copyrights.
• Technology Infrastructure Maintenance: WWE relies on a sophisticated technology infrastructure to support its operations, including broadcasting, digital content delivery, data analytics, and more. The organization incurs costs for maintaining and upgrading its technology systems to ensure smooth operations and stay competitive in the market.

Revenue Streams

Ticket sales for live events: WWE generates a significant portion of its revenue from ticket sales for live events held around the world. These events include televised shows such as Monday Night Raw and SmackDown Live, as well as pay-per-view events like WrestleMania and SummerSlam. Fans purchase tickets to attend these events in person, providing a steady stream of revenue for the company.

Subscription fees for WWE Network: One of WWE's key revenue streams is its subscription-based streaming service, WWE Network. Fans can pay a monthly fee to access a vast library of on-demand content, including live pay-per-view events, original programming, and classic matches. The steady stream of subscription fees helps to bolster the company's bottom line.

Advertising and sponsorships: WWE attracts a wide range of advertisers and sponsors who are eager to reach its global audience of wrestling fans. The company partners with brands to promote products and services through on-air advertising, product placement, and sponsorships of live events. This revenue stream helps to offset production costs and boost overall profitability.

Merchandise sales: WWE offers a variety of merchandise for sale, including t-shirts, action figures, and other collectibles featuring its popular superstars. Fans can purchase these items online, at live events, and in retail stores around the world. Merchandise sales are a key revenue stream for the company, contributing to its overall financial success.

Licensing fees for content and trademarks: WWE licenses its content and trademarks to third-party partners for use in a variety of products and promotions. This includes video games, apparel, toys, and more. By leveraging its valuable intellectual property in this way, WWE is able to generate additional revenue streams and expand its brand presence in the marketplace.