Athletic Brewing of Milford announced on August 6 a major partnership with Arsenal Football Club of London, United Kingdom. The Connecticut brewery, credited with helping kickstart the current trend of non-alcoholic beers across the United States has made a strategic partnership with one of the world’s most popular soccer franchises as their first Official Non-Alcoholic Beer Partner.
Athletic Brewing’s Run Wild IPA will be served for both men’s and women’s matches at the club’s home field, Emirates Stadium in London, starting this month.
“As we continue to grow our footprint in the UK, we’re honored to partner with Arsenal, an institution synonymous with not just English football, but the sport on a global stage,” said Bill Shufelt, Co-Founder and CEO of Athletic. “Football is a sport that is a catalyst for community building, with fandom being passed down from one generation to the next. Our international footprint is expanding, and alcohol moderation is sweeping the globe, specifically among the next generation of consumers. This partnership represents an exciting milestone in our journey to revolutionize the way the world drinks. Whether supporters are enjoying an Athletic at home, at the local pub, or on the concourse at Emirates Stadium, we’re excited to be a part of Arsenal matchdays this season.”
“One aspect of this partnership that truly excites us is its inclusion of both the men’s and women’s teams,” added Shufelt. “With Arsenal Women making Emirates Stadium their new main home this season, we’re thrilled to be part of the matchday experience for all the team’s supporters by serving our brews throughout the stadium. The popularity of women’s sports has arrived and is here to stay, and the passion for the women’s team is evident by the attendance records they have set.”
Juliet Slot, Arsenal’s Chief Commercial Officer, said, “I’m so pleased to welcome Athletic Brewing to our family. We’re all focused on moving forward after record-breaking seasons for both our men’s and women’s teams in 2023/24. New partners like Athletic are vital in supporting our growth so we can continue to invest in our teams and compete for major trophies.
“Our supporters remain at the heart of this journey, and with more matches coming to Emirates Stadium this season for both teams, we’re excited to work with Athletic to enhance our matchday offer with their brilliant non-alcoholic beer.”