Advisory firm scores football club owner deal

A business advisory firm has netted a football club fresh backing.

FRP Corporate Finance worked with South Shields FC to secure a majority stake sale to an international investor consortium.

Bosses say the agreement represents “long-term backing for one of the North East’s most storied football clubs”.

Under the terms of the deal, an investor group backed by ORY Investment Holdings – led by Jason Ye and featuring investors from the US, Hong Kong and Singapore – has taken a majority share in the National League North club.

Geoff Thompson, who has overseen the 1888-founded club’s rise in recent years, remains as chair and a significant shareholder.

FRP Corporate Finance’s Newcastle team, led by partner Phil Williams and associate director Graham Brown, supported a global search process that involved discussions with potential investors from the UK and overseas.

Phil said: “The priority was to find the right long-term custodian for South Shields FC.

“The club has a strong identity and a deep connection with its supporters, so it was important any investor group shared this ambition while respecting what makes the club special.”

Jason added: “It is a privilege to join an organisation that embodies such a rich heritage, strong community spirit and a location at the heart of one of the world’s most prolific regions for football talent.

“We truly believe South Shields FC can grow into a strong force both on and off the pitch.”

Legal support for the vendor was provided by Square One Law’s Mark Lazenby and Declan Fahey.

Want your business, product or service to be seen regionally and nationally? Bdaily helps you get your story in front of the right audience, every day. Find out how Bdaily can help →

Join more than 55,000 subscribers by signing up to our daily bulletin each morning here.