(Alliance News) - Semper Fortis Esports PLC on Monday announced its intention to float on the Aquis Stock Exchange in London to raise GBP2.5 million, as it looks to tap into the fast-growing market for competitive video gaming.
The Sheffield-based company plans to create esports teams, sign sponsorship deals with brands, and sell consultancy services. There are 495 million esports fans globally and that the industry will make USD1.1 billion revenue this year, Semper Fortis said, citing the Newzoo 2021 Global Esports & Live Streaming Market Report.
Semper Fortis intends to start trading on Aquis on April 26. Board members include Keith Harris, who is former chair of The Football League, and Atari founder Nolan Bushnell. The company was founded in January 2020, according to Companies House.
Semper Fortis has recruited its first team, Top Blokes, and plans shortly to sign contracts with each of the three-man squad. Top Blokes compete in the Rocket League Championship Series, a professional international esports tournament.
The company also will look to form partnerships with professional footballers and influencers, a spokesperson told Alliance News.
"We see a significant opportunity to become a leading force in esports and associated technology development and consultancy services as we develop our business into the multiple vertical markets that serve esports and the wider gaming industry," Chief Executive Kevin Soltani said in the company's announcement Monday.
By Ivan Edwards; ivanedwards@alliancenews.com
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