AnnouncementLFC and Vista partner to champion and support small businesses
Liverpool FC and Vista have signed a multi-year agreement welcoming them as the official small business design and marketing partner to the Reds.
Founded in 1995, Vista is the design and marketing partner to millions of small businesses around the world, including more than 1.5 million in the UK. The brand encompasses VistaPrint, 99designs by Vista, and VistaCreate.
The global deal with LFC is Vista’s first sports partnership in the UK. Together, LFC and Vista will develop programmes that celebrate small businesses in the global LFC community and integrate them into team platforms, including digital and social media content, in-stadium activation, and promotion. LFC and Vista will also partner to create a series of exciting design initiatives that will engage fans and the small business community.
The initial focus for the partnership will be to support small businesses in Liverpool through the ‘Small Business of the Match’ experience in the spirit of ‘making small feel big’. Inspirational small business owners will be nominated by LFC for their positive impact on the community and will be rewarded with an unforgettable matchday experience and recognition within Anfield and beyond.
Additionally, Vista will partner with the small businesses to provide design and marketing services to help support their business. A number of small businesses will be chosen and given hero status at a selected match at Anfield.
Drew Crisp, SVP of Digital at Liverpool FC, said: “We are thrilled to welcome Vista on board. This is an exciting partnership that at the start will support small businesses in Liverpool, which in return will shape stronger communities in this city for a brighter future.
“The past two years has been tough for some businesses and this idea from Vista will be a huge opportunity for deserving small businesses to see their name in the lights at Anfield. Each will be given a global platform to tell everyone about their business and amplify their messaging.”
Emily Shirley, general manager of Vista UK & Ireland, said: “A city’s football team and small business community are the lifeblood of what makes it special, so we are thrilled to be partnering with such a team and city as iconic as Liverpool.
“Through LFC’s huge fanbase, incredible talent and community ties, we are excited to use this platform to celebrate the UK’s entrepreneurial heroes and provide the support they need to succeed.”
Ricky Engelberg, chief marketing officer of Vista, added: “Vista’s goal as the design and marketing partner for small businesses everywhere is to do all we can to help them thrive, because small businesses have such a resounding impact on communities like Liverpool, throughout the UK, and around the world.
“Vista is thrilled on behalf of small businesses everywhere to be able to partner with one of the most iconic clubs in all of sports, Liverpool FC, and shine our collective spotlight onto these amazing businesses.”