Parcel giants back AFC for fourth year
PARCEL delivery giants DPD are backing grass-roots football for the fourth successive season with a sponsorship deal with Hinckley AFC.
The firm, which in September 2015 opened Europe’s largest logistics hub at Sketchley Brook in Hinckley, has committed once again to supporting the community-run club.
Last season the DPD helped AFC deliver a record-breaking season, reaching the last 16 of the Buildbase FA Vase, the final of the Polymac Packaging League Cup and a securing a runners-up spot in the Midland League Division One.
The continuation of the sponsorship deal means the multi-national parcel delivery company will have their logo on the front of AFC’s shirts for a fourth time.
The link-up is apt given both organisations have ambitions for progress - AFC by snaring trophies and promotion and DPD by expanding operations in the borough.
Outline plans are being discussed for DPD to open another mega-hub locally, this time on land just outside Burbage near the Jury’s Inn Hinckley Island Hotel.
The facility, with a proposed workforce of 700 plus, would form part of a wider employment park.
With four years under their belts as partners the relationship has evolved so that DPD now also sponsor the junior section while the senior side got a guided tour of the Sketchley Brook complex last year.
AFC commercial director Steph McKeown was delighted to extend the successful alliance. She said: “It’s fantastic to have DPD on board for another season. For such a significant partner to continue to back us shows we’re moving in the right direction and we’re very grateful for their support.”
A spokesman for DPD: “We are delighted to be teaming up with Hinckley AFC again for the 2017-18 football season. It’s been wonderful to be part of the club since its first year in 2014.
“It’s a community club and we are passionate about bringing people together to help build and support the communities we’re closest to. We wish the team and everyone involved with the club the very best for the upcoming campaign.”
Hinckley AFC were born out of the remnants of Hinckley United which went bust following years of financial trouble and internal strife.
Die-hard United supporters joined together to raise funds and create a new club run by fans, for fans.
The team has a groundshare with Heather St Johns but enjoys social and other facilities at the Leicester Road sports complex in Hinckley.