Manchester Thunder, the reigning and four times Netball Super League (NSL) champions, have today announced that they have entered into a new 5-year strategic partnership with AO, the UK’s household electricals retailer, that will see them become the club’s principal sponsor for the 2023 season and beyond.
The partnership will see the AO brand embedded across Manchester Thunder’s broad range of assets from the front of NSL dresses and training kit to the match day court and associated courtside assets.
This long-term strategic partnership provides a firm foundation for the journey towards the full professionalism of the Manchester Thunder franchise and Netball as a whole, as well as providing financial security to allow Manchester Thunder to invest in long term initiatives.
Debbie Hallas, Managing Director of Manchester Thunder, said: “We’re delighted to have secured sponsorship from such a high-profile brand as AO. This partnership cements our vision to ‘be the best elite netball club in the UK, on and off court’ and we’re excited to be associated with AO.
“I passionately believe that if we want to realise our potential as a sport, we need to bring the biggest brands into our support and this agreement represents a major step towards achieving this goal.”
Vicky Monk, Director of Brand and Marketing at AO, added: “We’re continuing to invest heavily in our brand and our new partnership with Manchester Thunder marks an important part of that strategy.
“With our roots firmly in the North West, we’re thrilled to support a Manchester team to raise the profile of netball on their journey to professionalism and are excited at the prospect of inspiring and encouraging young people to take part in sport.
“We’re delighted to be continuing to support our local neighbours, as Manchester Thunder joins our roster of regional sponsorships including; the AO Arena, Sale Sharks, Lancashire County Cricket Club and Bolton Lads and Girls Club.”
