Partner Article

Businesses look to find the net in 2018

Sunderland AFC chairman Niall Quinn has issued a rallying call to North East businesses in a bid to make them World Cup winners.

In December FIFA will announce which nation has won the privilege of hosting the most famous football tournament on Earth in 2018.

Newcastle and Sunderland have already been confirmed as two of the cities to stage matches if England were chosen, and Niall Quinn has been quick to foresee the doors this could open for the region’s businesses.

Speaking ahead of the Lighting up Lives breakfast event at the Stadium of light on Monday, Quinn, said: “Should England win the honour of hosting the World Cup in 2018 or 2022, Sunderland’s role as a host could bring huge benefits to the North East.

“The impact the event could have on the economy is very significant, through increased visitor numbers and numerous contract opportunities for businesses.”

Firms across the North East have been urged to attend the event on Monday at the stadium, and will be offered a glimpse into the commercial potential the tournament could offer.

Coun Paul Watson added: “Winning the candidate host city status is just the start for Sunderland. We now need to do as much as we can to support the national campaign.

“It’s important businesses throughout North East England understand the significance of this campaign and that’s why we’re inviting businesses to come along, have breakfast with us and find out what we call all do to support the FA’s final bid.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .