- 85% of all EFL soccer clubs have been backed by a small local business during the pandemic
- EFL reportedly lost UK£250m over the last year
The English Football League (EFL) has launched ‘Small Businesses United’, a new partnership with online marketplace eBay that will aim to support local businesses.
As part of the three-year scheme, eBay will provide advertising space for smaller businesses at the grounds of all 72 EFL clubs across the second, third and fourth tiers of English domestic soccer.
The EFL previously reported that it lost UK£250 million (US$348 million) at the start of the pandemic in 2020 due to matches being played in empty stadiums.
However, with full crowds returning for the 2021/22 season, this new initiative will enable eBay sellers to promote their companies through their local soccer teams.
“The long-term relationship we have agreed with eBay is an exciting addition to the EFL portfolio of official partners and highlights how we want to support the local businesses who have in turn done so much to help our clubs”, said Ben Wright, the EFL’s chief commercial officer.
“It is a fantastic opportunity for supporters of our clubs to see their own businesses advertised in EFL stadia nationwide, and demonstrates again how the EFL can support positive and impactful local community activation on a national scale.”
Rob Hattrell, senior vice president and head of eBay Europe, added: “Local business and football clubs are the backbone of our communities, sharing a history of mutual support that we’re so excited to celebrate with Small Businesses United.
“After the financial trials of the pandemic, it’s more important than ever for eBay to continue to shine a spotlight on the power of small business, and to champion the sport we know and love.”
The EFL has launched ‘Small Businesses United’, a new partnership with online marketplace eBay that will aim to support local businesses.
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