MP criticises Bolton’s QuickQuid deal

BOLTON Wanderers FC, the Championship football club, has agreed a two-year commercial deal with short-term lender QuickQuid for it to become principal sponsor.

The move was criticised by local MP Julie Hilling, who claimed the so-called ‘payday lenders’ exploit vulnerable people.

The Bolton West MP described the deal as a “sad day” for the club, adding: I think accepting a sponsorship deal legitimises these companies in a way that’s unacceptable.”

Some fans have voiced their unease too, and a protest has been organised in the town at 5pm today.

Announcing the deal Bolton Wanderers chairman Phil Gartside said: “In our discussions it became obvious very quickly that both parties wanted to develop a partnership that engaged with all elements of the football club and community, and as much as anything else, to bring some real fun to matchdays.

“This is one of QuickQuid’s initial UK sports partnerships, and I am delighted that they have joined with us at Bolton Wanderers. Their energy and enthusiasm to help develop initiatives in collaboration with the Community Trust, and to support education and other sporting opportunities in and around Bolton has been extremely refreshing.”

Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed. Bolton was previously sponsored by online bookmakers 118BET.

In addition to the QuickQuid logo featuring on the club’s new kits and training wear, the partnership presents a commitment by the company to invest in initiatives run by the Bolton Wanderers Community Trust.  

Greg Hohnstein, head of partnerships for QuickQuid, said: “We are excited to be part of a strong partnership as it develops over this period to help bring success on the pitch, and positive results and opportunities in the wider community.”

Bolton is not the first club in the region to sign a deal with a payday lender, Blackpool has been sponsored by Wonga for more than a year.