Manchester United, one of the most iconic football clubs in the world, enjoys immense commercial success, attracting numerous sponsors who want to leverage the team’s global reach and passionate fanbase. In 2016, the Red Devils boasted a strong portfolio of sponsors, contributing significantly to the club’s revenue stream. This article will delve into the key sponsors who partnered with Manchester United in 2016, examining their impact and the significance of these partnerships.
Main Sponsors in 2016: A Glimpse into the Red Devils’ Commercial Powerhouse
Manchester United’s commercial success is undeniable, with numerous brands vying for the opportunity to associate their names with the prestigious club. In 2016, the Red Devils had a lineup of major sponsors across various categories, demonstrating their appeal to diverse businesses.
Chevrolet: The Iconic Shirt Sponsor
Chevrolet, the American automaker, held the coveted position of Manchester United’s shirt sponsor in 2016. This partnership marked a significant moment, as Chevrolet became the first American company to hold the prestigious shirt sponsorship. The partnership, worth a reported $559 million over seven years, was a testament to Chevrolet’s ambition to expand its global reach and tap into the enormous Manchester United fanbase.
“This partnership is a game-changer for us,” said Alan Batey, President of GM North America. “It allows us to connect with passionate football fans around the world and showcase Chevrolet’s innovative vehicles to a global audience.”
Aon: The Official Insurance Partner
Aon, a global professional services firm specializing in insurance, reinsurance, and risk management, held the position of Manchester United’s official insurance partner in 2016. This partnership provided Aon with valuable branding opportunities, allowing them to connect with the club’s loyal fanbase and promote their services to a wider audience. The Aon logo was prominently displayed on the training kits, and the company also benefited from branding opportunities at Old Trafford and through various marketing initiatives.
Adidas: The Official Kit Supplier
Adidas, the renowned sportswear brand, continued its long-standing partnership with Manchester United in 2016, serving as the official kit supplier. This partnership included the design, production, and distribution of all Manchester United kits, including home, away, and third kits. Adidas leveraged this partnership to showcase its innovative designs and technologies, while Manchester United benefited from Adidas’ expertise in sportswear and their global reach.
Other Key Sponsors in 2016: Enhancing the Club’s Brand Value
Beyond the main sponsors, Manchester United also collaborated with a number of other companies in 2016, further enriching their commercial portfolio and enhancing their brand value. These included:
- Nike: While Adidas was the official kit supplier, Nike continued to hold a significant presence as a sponsor of Manchester United players, providing them with footwear and other apparel.
- Coca-Cola: The iconic beverage brand continued its long-standing partnership with Manchester United, benefiting from branding opportunities at Old Trafford and through various marketing initiatives.
- Sharp: The Japanese electronics company was Manchester United’s official electronics partner, leveraging the partnership to promote its products to a global audience.
- DHL: The global logistics company held the position of Manchester United’s official logistics partner, providing valuable services for the club’s travel and merchandise distribution.
The Impact of These Partnerships: A Win-Win for Sponsors and Manchester United
These partnerships proved mutually beneficial for both the sponsors and Manchester United. The sponsors gained access to the club’s immense fanbase, creating valuable branding opportunities and increasing their global reach. For Manchester United, these partnerships provided a significant revenue stream, allowing the club to invest in players, facilities, and other areas that contribute to their on-field success.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: What is the estimated revenue generated by Manchester United’s sponsorship deals in 2016?
A: While exact figures are not publicly available, reports suggest that Manchester United’s sponsorship revenue in 2016 exceeded $200 million.
Q: How do these sponsorships benefit Manchester United as a club?
A: Sponsorships provide significant financial resources for Manchester United, allowing them to invest in key areas such as player recruitment, training facilities, and infrastructure development.
Q: What are some of the benefits that sponsors derive from partnering with Manchester United?
A: Sponsors gain access to Manchester United’s global fanbase, enhancing brand awareness, promoting their products and services, and increasing their own global reach.
Q: How are these partnerships implemented and managed?
A: Manchester United has a dedicated commercial team that manages all sponsorship partnerships, ensuring that sponsors receive the agreed-upon benefits and that the club maintains a high standard of brand representation.
Q: What is the future outlook for Manchester United’s sponsorship portfolio?
A: With their continued on-field success and global reach, Manchester United is expected to continue attracting major sponsors in the future, further strengthening their commercial dominance.
If you’re looking for more information about Manchester United’s current sponsors or have questions about their commercial strategy, feel free to contact us. Our team is available 24/7 to assist with your inquiries.