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Chicago Bulls Debut In-Seat Delivery Service for Branded Merch

The innovative offering comes through a partnership with fintech company Klarna. Transactions occur through the NBA team’s mobile app.

“I’ll take fries and an order of merch.”

Chicago Bulls fans can now have team-branded merchandise delivered directly to their seats at home games.

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The innovation is possible thanks to a partnership between the National Basketball Association (NBA) team and Klarna, a Sweden-based fintech company that provides a variety of e-commerce services.

To use the “Smooth Delivery” service, as it’s called, fans attending games at the United Center simply purchase select Bulls gear from the Madhouse Team Store through the six-time NBA champs’ mobile app.

The service tipped off at the Bulls’ home opener on Oct. 22. Fans who purchased a Klarna-sponsored “Item of the Game” were also to receive an additional branded product with their in-seat delivery, all in a Klarna gift bag. The service offers Klarna’s Pay-in-4 method, which allows consumers to buy items and pay later through interest-free installments.

“Providing fans an opportunity to purchase Bulls gear without missing any game action demonstrates our ongoing commitment to enhancing the gameday experience,” said Matt Kobe, the Bulls executive vice president of revenue and strategy. “We are excited to continue collaborating with Klarna to create legendary experiences for fans.”

The initiative is another example of technology and merchandise coming together to try to meet audiences where they are, all with the aim of enhancing a brand and better monetizing it.

Bulls fans may also wish to take note: Through a separate partnership with Zach LaVine, Klarna will curate a collection of the player’s favorite Bulls apparel and accessories available for purchase in the Klarna app.