thenorthernecho.co.uk

Sunderland promise seven-figure Stadium of Light investment in 'world class' link-up

The [Black Cats](http://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/sport/football/sunderland) say it's the biggest investment the club has made in the area since the Stadium of Light opened in 1997.

And as part of what [Sunderland](https://www.thenorthernecho.co.uk/sport/football/sunderland/) describe a new "landmark partnership" with Delaware North, a global leader in hospitality and foodservice management, the Black Cats have also promised "enhancements to the food and beverage offering" at the stadium.

In a statement, Sunderland said: "The long-term agreement will see Delaware North collaborate with SAFC to produce exceptional food and beverage offerings and elevated services across matchdays, concerts and events throughout the club’s general admission (GA) and premium spaces.

"Building on last summer’s stadium developments, this will be led by a significant seven-figure investment in the club’s concourse spaces – the most in this area since the Stadium of Light opened in 1997 – to further reaffirm SAFC’s commitment to delivering the best matchday and event experiences for all supporters.

"Ahead of the 2025-26 Premier League season, this will feature refurbished concourse environments and enhancements to the food and beverage offering, including a wider selection of beers and collaborations with local vendors, underpinned by new technology to significantly increase the speed and quality of service.

"From the concourses to the stadium’s most exclusive premium spaces, including the Banks on the Wear and 76 Yards experiences, which will see Michelin star chef and Sunderland fan Tommy Banks take centre stage, the fan journey will be elevated across every touchpoint with industry-leading servicing and innovation at the heart of a redefined operation.

"As Sunderland AFC continues its journey on and off the field, this partnership with Delaware North will continue to elevate all experiences at the Stadium of Light, as the club continues to strive to place supporters at the heart of the action."

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Delaware North operates hospitality and merchandise services at more than 50 global venues, including the Emirates Stadium, London Stadium, Wembley Stadium, Melbourne Cricket Ground and MetLife Stadium in New York.

David Bruce, Sunderland's chief business officer, said: “This is a hugely exciting development for Sunderland AFC and our supporters.

"Last summer, we reimagined our retail experience with a global leader and this partnership with Delaware North will now take our general admission and premium experiences to a new level.

"Partnering with Delaware North will enable us to offer world-class experiences that are built around the fan, with innovation and technology ensuring speed and service excellence. They place supporters and local culture at the heart of each of their bespoke offerings, making them a natural partner for our club.

"We are truly thrilled to be collaborating with them and can’t wait for our fans to experience what is coming to the Stadium of Light.”

Doug Tetley, managing director of Delaware North UK, said: “We are honoured to partner with Sunderland AFC.

"The Stadium of Light is a special place with a passionate fanbase, and we are excited to bring our global experience and innovation to this iconic venue. Our goal is to deliver memorable moments for every supporter who walks through the gates.”

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