Sunderland AFC and Delaware North Launch Major Upgrade to Matchday and Event Experiences
(IN SHORT) Sunderland AFC has entered a multi-year agreement with Delaware North to transform hospitality across general admission and premium spaces at the Stadium of Light. Ahead of the 2025-26 Premier League season, a seven-figure investment will fund the largest concourse refurbishment since 1997, featuring updated environments, an expanded beer range, local vendor partnerships, and new service technology. Premium areas like Banks on the Wear and 76 Yards will feature Michelin-starred chef Tommy Banks’ curated menus. Both parties emphasize a fan-first ethos: Sunderland AFC’s Chief Business Officer David Bruce highlights the drive for innovation and speed, while Delaware North UK’s MD Doug Tetley commits to delivering memorable supporter experiences.
(PRESS RELEASE) SUNDERLAND, 2025-Jul-3 — /Travel PR News/ — Sunderland AFC is proud to announce a long-term partnership with Delaware North, the global hospitality and foodservice powerhouse, as the Club’s premium hospitality provider at the Stadium of Light. This collaboration ushers in an elevated matchday and event experience for supporters, backed by Delaware North’s renowned operations at iconic venues such as London’s Emirates Stadium, Wembley Stadium, and the London Stadium, as well as major international sites like Melbourne Cricket Ground, Lambeau Field, and TD Garden.
Under this agreement, Delaware North will work closely with SAFC to revamp food and beverage offerings and enhance service delivery across all general admission and premium areas for football matches, concerts, and special events. Launching ahead of the 2025-26 Premier League season, the partnership is underpinned by a seven-figure investment— the largest concourse upgrade since the Stadium of Light’s 1997 opening. Fans can look forward to refreshed concourse environments, a broader beer selection, collaborations with local producers, and cutting-edge technology to streamline ordering and improve service speed.
Premium spaces, including the Banks on the Wear and 76 Yards suites, will also receive a service overhaul. Michelin-starred chef—and lifelong Sunderland supporter—Tommy Banks will curate bespoke dining experiences, ensuring every element from cuisine to presentation reflects the Club’s heritage and Delaware North’s hospitality standards.
“This marks a thrilling chapter for our Club and supporters,” said David Bruce, Chief Business Officer at Sunderland AFC. “Following last summer’s retail transformation, we’re now redefining both GA and premium matchday experiences. Delaware North’s fan-centric approach, powered by innovation and local partnerships, makes them the perfect collaborator. We can’t wait for fans to enjoy these world-class enhancements at the Stadium of Light.”
Doug Tetley, Managing Director of Delaware North UK, added, “We’re honoured to partner with Sunderland AFC and bring our global expertise to this storied venue. Our mission is to create unforgettable moments for every fan stepping through the gates.”
Supporters should watch Sunderland AFC’s digital channels for further updates as the Club gears up for the 2025-26 season.
Media Contacts:
Glen White
Director, Corporate Communications
Corporate, Gaming, Parks and Resorts, Australia
250 Delaware Ave.
Buffalo, New York 14202
Email: GAWhite@delawarenorth.com
Phone: 716-858-5753
Charles Roberts
Director, Public Relations
Sportservice, Travel, Patina Restaurant Group, U.K.
250 Delaware Ave.
Buffalo, New York 14202
Email: CHRobert@delawarenorth.com
Phone: 716-858-5545
SOURCE: Delaware North Companies, Inc.
