Man Utd extends long-running partnership with US group

Manchester United has extended its long-standing global partnership with US-based mattress and pillow manufacturer, MLILY.

The deal, which adds sofas to the range of rest, recovery and relaxation product, was unveiled at the club’s #ILOVEUNITED fan event in Shanghai at the weekend.

Since establishing the partnership in 2016, Manchester United and MLILY have collaborated on a range of fan-focused activities, including legend meet and greets, trips to the UK for Chinese fans, youth football tournaments, as well as its presence at the club’s #ILOVEUNITED fan events.

The collaboration aims to bring even more football-related activities to China, promoting cultural exchanges between the Chinese and international football communities.

Manchester United’s CEO of Alliances and Partnerships, Victoria Timpson said: “Our partnership with MLILY is a fantastic example of how we work with our partners to not only engage with our global fans, but also use their expertise to enhance the services available to our first team players.

“Quality sleep and relaxation are such a vital part of an athlete’s training programme and by working with our rest and recovery coaches, MLILY were able to advise and provide high quality sleep products to assist with this.

“We are excited to extend this further by bringing the same technologically advanced sofa products to both players and fans.”

MLILY founder, James Ni, said: “Our dedicated partnership with Manchester United is something that continues to elevate the stature of our brand in China and across our global markets.

“Innovation has always been a key factor in our success, and we share those similarities with Manchester United, who continue to innovate as a global leader in the sports industry, both on and off the pitch.”