New Sheffield Wednesday owners strike commercial consultancy partnership with GSW

General Sports Worldwide is delighted to announce it has been appointed to provide commercial support to the new owners of Sheffield Wednesday.

The South Yorkshire club was purchased last month by US consortium Arise Capital Partners and one of their first acts was to strike an exclusive commercial consultancy partnership with GSW.

Their role will include remodelling and revenue generation for all key commercial areas, primarily partnerships, premium seating and retail.

The GSW operation – headed by Ashley Peden, Senior Vice President, Commercial – will also focus on The Owls’ ticketing and operations and partnership acquisition, whilst also providing commercial sales support.

GSW Chief Executive Officer, Sam Rush, said:

After an extremely difficult period in Sheffield Wednesday’s history, the acquisition of the club by Arise Capital Partners heralds a fresh and exciting start.

“Arise recognised that they need support as they look to drive increased revenue to be reinvested in the club and we are honoured that they have asked us to come on board and assist them across various areas of the business.

Sheffield Wednesday CEO, David Bruce commented:

I have worked closely with Ashley and members of the GSW team over a number of years and have seen first-hand the expertise, energy and commercial insight they bring to football clubs. 

“As we begin an exciting new chapter for Sheffield Wednesday, it is vital that we establish strong foundations across every area of the business. GSW’s experience in driving revenue growth, developing partnerships and enhancing the supporter experience will be invaluable as we work towards building a sustainable and successful future for the club.

Rush, himself a former Football League club CEO, added:

Several members of our team have held senior positions in Premier League and EFL clubs and we know we can bring that experience to bear on behalf of Sheffield Wednesday.

“We are looking forward to working closely with Arise and the existing staff members at Hillsborough to help shape a brighter future for such a historic club.