Top Esports Franchises in 2024

Javier Barragan
February 9, 2024

E-sports franchises refer to businesses that operate in the competitive video gaming industry, also known as e-sports. E-sports franchises can include a wide range of businesses, including:

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  • Professional teams: Professional esports teams compete in organized leagues and tournaments, and often have sponsors and merchandise sales.
  • Gaming venues: Gaming venues are physical locations where people can gather to play video games. These can include esports arenas, gaming cafes, and LAN centers.
  • Gaming equipment and accessories: Gaming equipment and accessories companies produce and sell products such as gaming mice, keyboards, headsets, and other gear specifically designed for esports.
  • Game Publishers: Companies that develop and publish games, often with a focus on multiplayer or competitive gameplay.
  • Streaming and Broadcasting: Platforms and companies that provide live streaming and broadcasting services for esports events and competitions.
  • Esports Betting: Platforms and companies that allow fans to bet on the outcomes of esports matches and tournaments.

It's important to note that the esports industry is relatively new and constantly evolving, and new types of esports-related businesses are emerging as the industry grows and matures.

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Profitability Of E-sports Franchises

The profitability of owning an esports franchise can vary greatly depending on a number of factors, such as the size of the market, the level of competition, and the overall management of the franchise. It's important to note that the esports industry is relatively new and rapidly evolving, so it can be challenging to predict how profitable owning an esports franchise will be in the future.

According to some estimates, the global esports market is expected to reach $1.5 billion by 2024 and is projected to reach $2.2 billion by 2025. This growth is driven by factors such as increasing interest in esports, the expansion of esports into mainstream media, and the growth of esports-based betting and gambling.

However, specific financial performance data for esports franchises is not publicly available, as it's a private matter for each franchise. The best way to get a clear understanding of the profitability of an esports franchise is to speak directly with the franchisor and current franchisees, and conduct independent research. The franchisor should be able to provide more detailed information on the financial performance of their franchises through their Franchise Disclosure Document (FDD).

Here are some esports industry trends:

Trend 1: Increased investment from traditional sports teams and organizations: Many traditional sports teams and organizations are investing in esports franchises, recognizing the potential for growth and profitability in the industry. This trend is expected to continue as more teams and organizations look to enter the market.

Trend 2: Expansion of franchise models: Esports franchises are expanding their business models to include not only competitive teams but also media, content creation, and events. This allows them to diversify their revenue streams and increase their profitability.

Trend 3: Growth of mobile gaming: Mobile gaming is becoming increasingly popular, with many esports franchises now focusing on developing mobile games and creating mobile esports leagues.

Trend 4: Growing interest in non-endemic brands: Non-endemic brands (brands that are not directly related to esports) are starting to invest in esports, recognizing the potential for reaching a young and engaged audience. This trend is expected to continue as more brands look to enter the market.

Trend 5: Increasing focus on engagement and fan experience: Esports franchises are focusing on creating engaging and immersive fan experiences, such as virtual and augmented reality, to attract and retain fans.

Trend 6: Growth of esports-based betting and gambling: Esports-based betting and gambling are becoming increasingly popular, with many esports franchises now offering these services to their fans.

It's essential to research the tutoring industry and your specific market before starting a business, which you can do with the help of Franchise Clues.

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Initial Investment And Opening Costs For Esports Franchises

The initial investment and opening costs for esports franchises can vary widely depending on the specific franchise and the type of business. Factors that may affect the cost include the size and location of the franchise, the services offered, and the equipment and materials required.

Here is a more specific idea of the initial investment and opening costs for a few different esports niches:

Gaming Venue Franchise:

  • Initial Franchise Fee: $25,000 to $50,000
  • Venue Rent or Purchase: $200,000 to $400,000
  • Equipment and Supplies: $200,000 to $300,000
  • Training: $5,000
  • Legal and Professional Fees: $10,000
  • Marketing and Advertising: 2% to 4% of monthly sales
  • Working Capital: $100,000

Gaming Team Franchise:

  • Initial Franchise Fee: $10,000 to $30,000
  • Equipment and Supplies: $100,000 to $150,000
  • Training: $2,500
  • Legal and Professional Fees: $5,000
  • Marketing and Advertising: 2% to 4% of monthly sales
  • Working Capital: $50,000

Streaming and Broadcasting Franchise:

  • Initial Franchise Fee: $5,000 to $15,000
  • Equipment and Supplies: $50,000 to $100,000
  • Training: $1,500
  • Legal and Professional Fees: $5,000
  • Marketing and Advertising: 2% to 4% of monthly sales
  • Working Capital: $30,000

It's important to keep in mind that these are just estimates and the actual costs may vary based on the specific franchise and location. We recommend booking a call with Franchise Clues to ask about a franchising disclosure document (FDD) which contains detailed information about the costs associated with opening and operating a franchise, as well as other important information such as the company's financial performance and litigation history.

Benefits Of Opening A E-sports franchise

There are several benefits to opening an esports franchise, including:

  • Growing Industry: The esports industry is growing rapidly, with global revenues projected to reach $1.5 billion by 2024. This provides a significant opportunity for businesses to capitalize on the growth of the industry.
  • Established fan base: Esports has a large and dedicated fan base, which can provide a steady stream of customers and revenue for businesses.
  • Online and Offline opportunities: Esports can be enjoyed both online and offline, this allows for a variety of business models and revenue streams such as streaming, live events, content production, and merchandise sales.
  • Low barriers to entry: Starting an esports business can be relatively low-cost compared to traditional sports, making it accessible to a wider range of entrepreneurs.
  • Variety of Business Models: There are many different types of esports businesses, which allows entrepreneurs to choose a business model that best suits their skills, interests, and resources.
  • Demographic: The esports audience is relatively young and tech-savvy, which can be an attractive market for businesses that are targeting this demographic.
  • Potential for scalability: Many esports businesses have the potential to scale quickly, which can provide significant growth opportunities for entrepreneurs.

What Points To Pay Attention To When Opening An Esports Franchise

When opening an esports franchise, there are several key points to pay attention to:

Gaming Venue Franchise:

  • Venue Location: Consider the location of the venue carefully, and choose a location that is easily accessible and visible to potential players.
  • Equipment: Invest in high-quality gaming equipment that is compatible with the latest games and technology. This will provide players with a positive experience and encourage them to return to your venue.
  • Staffing: Hire knowledgeable and experienced staff who are passionate about esports. They will be responsible for running the venue and providing players with a positive experience.
  • Community Building: Encourage players to form teams, participate in tournaments, and engage with one another. This will foster a sense of community within your venue and increase player loyalty.

Gaming Team Franchise:

  • Team Development: Develop a strong team that can compete at the highest levels of esports competition. This may involve scouting, recruitment, and training.
  • Sponsorships and Partnerships: Seek out sponsorships and partnerships with companies and organizations in the gaming industry. This will provide financial support and increase exposure for your team.
  • Marketing and Advertising: Develop a comprehensive marketing and advertising plan to reach potential fans and build a loyal following. This may include social media advertising, email marketing, and in-person events.
  • Community Building: Encourage fans to engage with the team through social media, fan forums, and other channels. This will build a strong sense of community and increase fan loyalty.

Streaming and Broadcasting Franchise:

  • Equipment: Invest in high-quality broadcasting equipment, such as cameras, microphones, and lighting, to produce high-quality content.
  • Content Creation: Develop a content creation plan that showcases the latest games, events, and trends in the gaming industry. This will attract viewers and keep them engaged.
  • Distribution: Establish relationships with streaming platforms, such as Twitch and YouTube, to distribute your content.
  • Marketing and Advertising: Develop a comprehensive marketing and advertising plan to reach potential viewers and build a loyal following. This may include social media advertising, email marketing, and in-person events.

By paying attention to these niche specific points, you can increase the chances of success for your esports franchise.

Also we always recommend to conduct thorough research and consult with the franchise company, a lawyer, and an accountant before making decisions.

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