The Premier League has become a money driver for all its participating clubs over the years.
As the desire for commercial revenue hots up, we’ve seen an increase in obscure ‘partners’ and deals to up those spreadsheet figures.
The introduction of Financial Fair Play has also ensured clubs must earn more to be able to spend more – a further catalyst for surreal sponsorships.
As Manchester United announce a ‘Global Lubricant Oil partner’, we thought we’d look back at eight deals to be signed by Premier League clubs over the years.
Arsenal: Imperial Bank
In 2013, Arsenal signed a deal with Imperial Bank – headquartered in Nairobi – to produce cobranded cards in Kenya and Uganda.
Chelsea: Barbados
Chelsea signed a three-year deal with the Barbados Tourism authority to become their ‘Destination Tourism Partner’.
Man United: Nissin
Man United signed an ‘Official Noodles Partner’ in Nissin a couple of years ago. The deal covered Asia, Oceania and the Middle East.
Liverpool: Dunkin' Donuts
Liverpool signed a deal with Dunkin’ Donuts to become the club’s ‘Official tea, coffee and bakery provider’.
Stoke City: H Brown & Son
Stoke signed a deal with H Brown & Son Recycling Limited. They became an official partner.
West Brom: University of Wolverhampton
West Bromwich Albion signed a deal with the University of Wolverhampton. They became the club’s ‘Official Higher Education Partner’.
Aston Villa: Homeserve
Aston Villa signed up Homeserve as their ‘Official Home Assistance Partner’.
Southampton: Sunseeker
Southampton signed up Sunseeker as an official partner, the luxury yacht manufacturer.
Everton: Eleia Pure
Everton joined forces with Eleia Pure, a bottled water company. They became the club’s official partner.