Sunderland AFC shop to return to The Bridges | OneFootball

Sunderland AFC are bringing a dedicated club shop back to The Bridges, restoring a city-centre presence missing for years. The Debenhams concession’s closure left only temporary stalls.

According to Sunderland Echo, signage appeared on 28 May on the former Fashion Bible unit opposite Next, with an opening date to be confirmed. The report adds that Europa League qualification brings new exposure for club and city and at least eight extra fixtures, including four at home, boosting local spend. It also points to longer hotel stays and matchdays evolving into full-day economic events.

A 2-1 win over Chelsea on Sunday secured seventh place in the Premier League and next season’s Europa League, the club’s first European campaign in more than 50 years.

The breakthrough is expected to inject millions into the local economy and put the city back on the international stage.

In summer 2024 the club opened a new store at Black Cat House, having previously operated shops at The Galleries in Washington and at The Bridges.

The returning store, in association with Fanatics, will create jobs, with an assistant manager role already advertised to start in May or June.

Source: Sunderland Echo