Aussie John: Waterhouse failed to understand TV is a ‘sensitive space’

June 5, 2013 1:39

Tom Waterhouse’s mistake was his failure to recognise television screens as a “sensitive space”, according to Aussie Home Loans’ John Symond.

“Tom invaded their free space where they were relaxing. They didn’t want that,” said Symond.

Speaking on “The Face of the Brand” panel at the Mumbrella360 conference today, Symond weighed in on bookmaker Tom Waterhouse’s recent step back from television screens.

“You’ve got to understand your product and where there’s a market need, and I don’t think the footy shows have a need for a bookmaker,” he said.

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Nic Christensen

Nic Christensen worked for Mumbrella from 2013 to 2016, in roles including deputy editor and media & technology editor. He is former media writer for The Australian and has also worked as a reporter for The Daily Telegraph and senior producer for Radio 2GB.

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3 COMMENTS

Spindoctor 5 Jun 13

Good observations by John Symond and Lorna Jane Clarkson – I totally agree.
Unfortunately for him, Ruslan, Tom W did stand by his brand and the crisis did happen. Like all my friends, I look forward to not having betting odds interrupting our sporting viewing.

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Agree with Spindoctor 5 Jun 13

Ruslan you’re not making any sense. Just because you stand by your values doesn’t mean you can avoid a crisis. Ask the Turkish PM.

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Oliver 9 Jun 13

Is there really any difference at all between broadcasting live odds during sport and drawing the Gold Lotto live during the family movie on Saturday night movie?

Except of course that Waterhouse offers far better odds than the Golden Casket…

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