VOL 26 ISSUE 27, July 1, 2025
Main caption: Delaware North has been named the new hospitality partner at Sunderland AFC’s Stadium of Light in the United Kingdom, bringing world-class food, beverage and fan experiences to the Premier League club starting Aug. 1.
Sunderland Association Football Club (AFC) – one of three teams being promoted to the Premier League in the 2025-26 season – has announced a new partnership with Delaware North to serve as the club’s premium hospitality provider at the Stadium of Light in the United Kingdom.
The 15-year agreement marks a new era for matchday and event experiences for the city of Sunderland in Wearside, an area in northeastern England where the River Wear meets the North Sea.
Effective Aug. 1, Delaware North will oversee food and beverage operations across general admission and premium spaces, including concerts and non-matchday events.
“This is a hugely exciting development for Sunderland AFC and our supporters,” said David Bruce, the club’s chief business officer.
“Partnering with Delaware North will enable us to offer world-class experiences that are built around the fan, with innovation and technology ensuring speed and service excellence. They place supporters and local culture at the heart of each of their bespoke offerings, making them a natural partner for our club. We are truly thrilled to be collaborating with them and can’t wait for our fans to experience what is coming to the Stadium of Light,” Bruce said.
Delaware North brings decades of experience delivering hospitality at some of the world’s most iconic venues, including Wembley Stadium, Emirates Stadium, London Stadium and Pride Park Stadium in the U.K.
“We are honored to partner with Sunderland AFC,” said Doug Tetley, managing director of Delaware North U.K. “The Stadium of Light is a special place with a passionate fanbase, and we are excited to bring our global experience and innovation to this iconic venue. Our goal is to deliver memorable moments for every supporter who walks through the gates.”
The partnership includes a significant seven-figure investment in the stadium’s concourse areas – the largest since the venue opened in 1997. Upgrades will include refurbished environments, expanded food and beverage offerings, and new technology to improve speed and quality of service.
Enhancements will also extend to the stadium’s premium spaces, including the Banks on the Wear and 76 Yards experiences, where Michelin-starred chef and Sunderland supporter Tommy Banks will lead culinary offerings.