Aon kick-starts Manchester United sponsorship deal

FINANCIAL services giant Aon has today officially kicked-off its four-year shirt sponsorship deal with Manchester United.

The deal – which is reported to be worth around £80m a year – was launched at Manchester United’s Old Trafford stadium this morning by executives of the American company as well as Manchester United.

They were joined by Manchester United team legends Sir Bobby Charlton and Bryan Robson to launch a programme of global charity initiatives which are designed to promote youth development and healthier communities.

David Gill, chief executive of Manchester United, said: “This event is an indication of how Aon is committed to developing the partnership way beyond a simple commercial arrangement.

“In the coming years, I hope we will be able to build a tangible legacy for the Manchester United community both here in the North West and further afield.

“I am delighted that Aon wants to get its whole worldwide workforce involved. I’m sure it will really bring the sponsorship to life for many of them.”

Greg Case, chief executive of Aon Corporation, said: “Based on our shared values of leadership, teamwork, and a passion for excellence, it is difficult to imagine a stronger fit for Aon than Manchester United.

“Through the global charitable initiatives of Aon’s 36,000 colleagues, we will work with our partners at Manchester United and the Manchester United Foundation to promote these values and create positive opportunities for young people, to enable them to thrive and to help improve their communities.”

To mark the start of the sponsorship, the first charity event involved more than 150 of Aon’s Manchester-based employees and their families, who participated in a ‘Penalty Kick Challenge’ at Old Trafford in aid of The Christie Hospital, based in Didsbury.

The hospital – which is recognised to be one of England’s leading cancer centres which treats more than 40,000 patients a year – received a donation of £25,000 from the AON Foundation towards its Survivorship Programme.

This was established to help young people progress in their educational and career goals and receive life skills support following cancer treatment.

Caroline Shaw, chief executive of The Christie, said: “Having cancer at any age is traumatic, but it is especially difficult for young people when they still have their whole lives ahead of them.

“This generous support will help them have the successful and fulfilling life that they deserve after cancer.”

Aon has also announced its intention to support hundreds of schools, children’s hospitals, orphanages and community centres around the world through a variety of different fundraising initiatives in the years to come.