Bolton-based online electricals retailer AO has signed a five-year deal to become the new headline sponsor of Manchester Arena.
The rebranded AO Arena will be revealed today and operators ASM have also submitted significant redevelopment plans for the venue to Manchester City Council.
The plans promise to deliver “a transformed visitor experience, improve the sustainability of the existing venue to become one of the lowest carbon venues in Europe, enhance its existing access to onsite transport links, and act as hub for its communities.”
It is the first time a sponsor has had naming rights to the venue since 2014.
AO Founder and CEO John Roberts said: “The Arena holds a special place in the hearts of so many people in Manchester so we’re hugely proud to add the AO smile, especially after such an emotional and difficult period.
“Our home is firmly in the North West, something we’ve never forgotten while building the business into a global destination for electricals.
“We hope today’s redevelopment plans for the AO Arena which, combined with soon-to-be-announced good news about the events coming in 2021, will create hope and excitement about the future of entertainment in our great city.
“Through this sponsorship, we can deliver our famous AO smile to millions of visitors every year and we can’t wait to welcome them to the AO Arena.
James Allen, General Manager of the AO Arena, added: “We are thrilled to have secured this partnership and we look forward to a dynamic relationship with this exciting brand. Marking our 25th anniversary with redevelopment plans and our new partnership with AO highlights our commitment to the future of this venue in the heart of Manchester.
“And after such a long period of pause, we look forward to being able to press play and welcome fans back to the AO Arena.”
Events at the Arena are currently on hold because of the Covid-19 pandemic.
