Extra Gum is offering taxi rides on England match days to help fans enjoy the UEFA European Football Championships. The free service comes as new research reveals that nearly half of England residents (45%) are worried that everyday micro-stressors will interfere with their enjoyment of the games.
Teaming up with footballing legend Theo Walcott and the Football Association, Extra Gum is stepping in to help fans enjoy the summer of sport, via FREE taxi rides across the country on England match days.
The research from Extra Gum also shows that nearly half of Brits experience pre-match nerves (43%), with finding a venue or space in a bar to watch the matches cited as an additional source of micro-stress for nearly half of football fans (48%).
Whilst an impressive 84% of the nation can’t wait to support the England team this summer, many are concerned that everyday micro-stressors such as being too busy at work (31%), being late to games (28%) and being unable to switch off (27%) could interfere with their ability to fully enjoy the tournament.
Recognising that travel disruptions are also major source of micro-stress for over a third (36%) of people, and with the majority of Brits (98%) planning to watch the games outside their homes, Extra
Gum is providing stress-free journeys to those watching the tournament in London, Manchester and Liverpool.
Fronted by ex-football legend Theo Walcott, each taxi ride will provide a relaxing space equipped with Extra chewing gum and motivational pep talks from renowned players Joe Gomez, Ezri Konza, and James Maddison to get them game-ready. Over a third (35%) of those surveyed said that a pep talk from an England player would alleviate their micro-stress before a game, so Extra Gum’s Little Lift service ensures fans arrive at their preferred viewing venues, feeling calm, focused, and ready to enjoy the match.
To launch the service, Walcott surprised stressed-out fans heading to watch the England vs. Serbia match in London. Captured content shows the football legend engaging with supporters, boosting their match day spirit and handing out Extra Gum to give them an extra ‘little lift’ ahead of kick-off.
Football legend Theo Walcott said:
“I’ve partnered with Extra Gum because I know firsthand the excitement and pressure that comes with big games like the UEFA European Championship. This summer I’m happy to help fans focus on the fun and excitement of the game rather than the stress of getting there. We all need a little lift sometimes, and this is a great way to start the match on a positive note, with some Extra Gum and a pep talk providing the ultimate pre match me-moment.”
Lucy Sherlock, Senior Brand Manager at Extra, commented: “Our research shows just how much micro-stress can impact daily life, especially during big events like this. By offering free rides, we hope to give fans a moment to breathe, enjoy a piece of gum, and get ready to enjoy the England game wherever they’re watching. It’s about creating a better game-day experience with that extra little lift.”
The taxis will be available in London, Manchester, and Liverpool on the 20th and 25th of June, 2024. If you spot an Extra Gum branded taxi, simply hail it down, and it will take you to your chosen venue to watch the England game in your city.
