Rugby: LOU Rugby launch own currency, make it sole payment method in stadium

LOU Rugby (Lyon Olympique Universitaire), a club in the Top 14 (French first division of rugby) launched their own official currency, the "Token du LOU," on 28/08/2014. These tokens, worth €3 each, will be the only payment method possible on match-days at Matmut Stadium (capacity 8,000) beginning on 30/08/2014.

"The objective of this project is twofold," said Yann Roubert, the CEO of LOU Rugby, speaking to News Tank on 28/08/2014. "First, these tokens reinforce the identity and visibility of the LOU Rugby brand. Each piece will have the face of one of the club's iconic players on one side and the club symbol on the other. The tokens may also become communication tools for our partners and a collectors' items for our fans."

"Secondly," he continued, "the tokens eliminate cash transactions in the refreshments areas during match-days. This improves cash management and prevents thefts, among other things. Approximately 300,000 tokens will be produced. They will be renewed each season and are expected to reach 60,000 to 70,000 supporters."

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