Manchester United set out new China commitment

Manchester United have identified the importance of China in the future success of their global partnership with Gulf Oil International.

The two organisations celebrated their history together at an event held in Shanghai, where they set out their vision for a successful relationship with one of the world’s biggest and fastest growing economies.

The event was attended by United legend Denis Irwin and commercial director Jamie Reigle, as well as Frank Rutten, the vice president of Gulf Oil International, and executives from Gulf China.

The Red Devils’ three-year partnership with Gulf, which made the company the club’s first official global lubricant oil and fuel retail partner, was announced in March. The deal gave Gulf access to United’s 325m followers in Asia, which the oil giant considers an area of focus.

Commercial director Jamie Reigle said: “We have been proud to underline our continued commitment to China both on and off the football pitch.

“We enjoy the passionate and loyal support of more than 100m followers here, making this the country with more Manchester United fans than any other in the world.”

Gulf Oil International VP Frank Rutten commented: “Our partnership with Manchester United has brought together two brands with incredible heritage and a great future together - and I see many parallels between us.

“Manchester United recently took an historic 12th FA Cup win, while Gulf continues to make its own history – scoring three years of 20% growth in branded lubricants.”