The doors of the brand new Sunderland AFC club store have officially opened at The Bridges Shopping Centre.
Located opposite Next, the new store offers visitors to the centre a fresh shopping experience that complements the flagship club shop at the Stadium of Light.
Featuring a broad range of gifts alongside the core kit offer, the store is set to become a go-to destination for both supporters and city centre visitors.
Shoppers were welcomed through the doors by SAFC legend Gary Bennett MBE and mascots Samson and Delilah this morning (Friday 12 June) for a special launch event.
Early visitors enjoyed exclusive giveaways and a Spin-to-Win Wheel, featuring prizes such as hospitality tickets and a signed shirt.
The excitement will continue on Saturday 13 June with giveaways and a mascot visit between 1pm – 2pm.
Supporters were also able to get their hands on the new Sunderland AFC training wear collection, produced in partnership with Hummel. The collection is the first of several new product ranges arriving this summer, with the home, away and third kits set to follow over the coming months.
Karen Eve, Centre Director at The Bridges, said: “The arrival of the official SAFC store is a fantastic addition to the centre and is highly anticipated by fans who are still celebrating the team qualifying for Europe. Sunderland AFC supporters are incredibly passionate, and we’re delighted to bring them a new store ahead of the new season.”
The opening marks the club’s permanent return to The Bridges since 2018, following several highly successful festive pop-up stores in Central Square.
Terry Stephenson, Head of Marketing at Sunderland AFC, said: “This is about being where our supporters are. It’s great to have the club back in the city centre, and The Bridges is exactly the right home for our new store.
“Working with Fanatics, we now have two stores our fans can be proud of, and with the feel-good factor from the end of last season still alive and kicking, there’s never been a better time to open our doors.”
Pamela Morrow, Director of Retail Stores at Fanatics, said: “We’re excited to be opening a new official store in The Bridges, giving supporters an additional destination for official club merchandise in the heart of the city.
“Sunderland fans are incredibly passionate and deserve the best, and we’re committed to continuing to enhance their retail experience, both at this new store and at the Club Store at the Stadium of Light. We look forward to welcoming them through the doors.”
Shoppers can visit the store daily, opening Monday to Saturday 9am – 6pm, and Sunday 10am – 4pm.
Find out more about the Sunderland AFC club store at The Bridges, here: https://www.thebridges-shopping.com/retail/safc-store/
