Great Annual Savings become principle partners of Sunderland

Great Annual Savings Group (GAS) is proud to be announced as Sunderland AFC’s principal partner for the 2020/21 season.

The initial two-year agreement will see the GAS brand emblazoned on the front of club’s famous red and white shirt, as well as the new away shirt.

The organisations are long-standing partners and GAS is also a supporter of the Foundation of Light and has contributed to other club events and hospitality.

The deal will also see GAS on the front of the club’s Under 23s shirt and all adult and junior replica.

Brad Groves, Chief Executive at GAS, said: “We have worked with Sunderland for three years now and have helped them with energy and legislative obligations, as well as becoming a long-term supporter of the Foundation of Light.

“Sunderland is a football club with huge influence in the city and the region. As one of the UK’s fastest-growing businesses, we believe we can utilise this to achieve something worthwhile with the partnership.

“In a time of uncertainty for so many families, we will be working with the club on a number of initiatives to make a difference to families who may be struggling. With the backing of the club, we are looking forward to revealing more soon.”

Jim Rodwell, Chief Executive Officer at SAFC, said: “We are proud to welcome Great Annual Savings Group as our new principal partner. Over the past three years, my colleagues have forged a strong and long-lasting partnership with GAS and their passion for the club has shone brightly throughout.

“Cementing partnerships with North East businesses will greatly benefit SAFC and the community for many years to come, and we are looking forward to growing successfully together.”

Mark Jones, Associate Director (UKI Enterprise) at GAS, said: “As a lifelong Sunderland supporter, this has been an enjoyable deal to be a part of.

“GAS colleagues have been regulars at the Stadium of Light in recent seasons, roaring on the lads, and we hope to be involved with the club in a professional capacity for years to come, as well as in our personal lives.”

Craig Shields, Head of Quality and Risk at GAS, said: “The shirt sponsorship represents the culmination of all the work we have done with the club to date and we could not be prouder.

“It is an exciting time to work for GAS as we now employ more than 300 people with more new jobs and an incredible new HQ on the way. To be sponsoring Sunderland’s kit is another great feeling for those of us from the area.

“The timing has been planned to fit perfectly with our growth plans and I think it is a great time for Sunderland to have a company with its roots in the city on the front of the shirt.”