Centerplate UK introduces Fan Zone at Sunderland AFC's ground

Centerplate UK has introduced a Fan Zone at Sunderland AFC's ground as part of a multi-million pound long-term contract extension with the club.

The pre-match area was introduced to coincide with the start of the new Premier League football season and offers supporters a variety of dishes.

Located at the south east corner of the Stadium of Light, the hospitality area can hold up to 6,000 guests, and will be open three hours prior to kick-off and for one hour after the final whistle.

Centerplate declined to reveal the length and value of the extended business; however, industry insiders estimate it to be a multi-million pound contract that will take the partnership to the end of the decade.

The festival and street market space for match day ticketholders will also offer exclusive entertainment as well as an array of food and beverages in a family-friendly environment.

Classic stadium favourites will also be available alongside the introduction of international flavours such as Mexican chicken tortillas.

Adrian Dishington, chief operating officer at Centerplate UK, said: "We are extremely excited to be thinking quite literally 'outside the box' when it comes to the amenities we can offer supporters at the Stadium of Light. 'Making it Better to Be There' is the foundation for everything we do at Centerplate, and we take a holistic approach to enhancing the match day experience for fans so that they get the very most out of their visit.

"The Fan Zone is the first of its kind for the supporters of a Premier League club, and it provides a fantastic and unique opportunity to build community and excitement around the Black Cats in a family-friendly environment."

The contract extension was signed in January this year and as part of the deal Centerplate has established Sunderland AFC's Stadium of Light as a Centre of Excellence.

This move will see the venue become a centre for innovation in sports stadium catering, including staff training, new food and drink concept development and beta-testing new equipment and technologies.

Centerplate extends long-term catering contract at Sunderland AFC >>

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