Watford FC and Early Doors Sports have announced the launch of The Matchday Edition, a groundbreaking personalised post-match publication, taking a football staple into the 21st century and giving supporters the ultimate matchday memento.
A world-first in professional sport, The Matchday Edition is a print-on-demand product that supporters can order in minutes from a phone or computer. It’s available as a standard or personalised version, featuring supporters’ own photos from their day at the stadium. Crucially, it includes integrated video highlights, meaning fans can relive the best moments of the game instantly, alongside the full post-match story.
Unlike traditional match programmes – which can only preview the game – The Matchday Edition is the ideal keepsake, containing everything fans need to remember the game: line-ups, match report, official action shots, key stats, post-match interviews, plus video highlights accessed via QR codes. It delivers the same matchday tradition supporters love, but upgraded for the next-generation in sports technology.
The Matchday Edition is priced in line with traditional programmes, while delivering dramatically richer content and an enhanced supporter experience. It also introduces an eco-friendly approach: because each copy is printed only when ordered, there are no minimum print runs, no unsold stock, and no waste. For the club, it marks a move from a product that can often be loss-making into a profit-generator, without upfront print costs.
“Watford FC has always been forward-thinking in how we serve and engage our supporters,” said Steve Scott, Content & Production Manager at Watford FC. “This product gives fans a 21st-century experience and ensures we remain at the vanguard of the digital age. Supporters can now keep at home a complete record of the match, the ultimate memento for those attending for the first time or because it was a memorable game. Fans can even make it personal with their own photos. It’s the perfect offering for supporters of the ‘Original Family Club’ and adds to our digital and print estate.”
Mike Lewis, CEO, Early Doors Sports, added: “The match programme is one of football’s great traditions – but it hasn’t kept pace with how fans experience the game today. Watford’s new Matchday Edition is built on our proprietary personalisation platform, and showcases the innovation UK tech companies are bringing to this space. Fans get the perfect keepsake, while clubs get a smarter, more sustainable commercial model with profit on every copy.”
The launch positions Watford FC at the forefront of football innovation, showcasing a club committed to delivering world-leading supporter experiences through smart technology, multi-platform content, and sustainable operations.
Supporters can order The Matchday Edition online from desktop or mobile at programmes.watfordfc.com, with options to purchase a standard version or personalise their copy with their own matchday photos.