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Southampton have made a piece of St Mary’s Stadium history as they strengthen their commercial offering ahead of another Championship campaign.
Bargate has become the first-ever stand partner at the 25-year-old stadium.
Bargate become first-ever stand partner at St Mary's Stadium
The Chapel Stand will now be known as The Chapel Stand in partnership with Bargate, with the Hampshire-based homebuilder's branding also appearing throughout the stand and Chapel Fan Zone.
The agreement is an extension of Bargate's existing partnership with the Championship side, having worked with the club since 2023.
Southampton chief revenue officer Greg Baker said the new arrangement was particularly fitting during the stadium's 25th anniversary year, with Bargate sharing the club's south coast roots and commitment to the local community.
The partnership has already included 150 complimentary Saints Soccer Schools places for students, support for the Saints Foundation's Senior Saints Christmas Dinner and the creation of The Bargate Sensory Room at St Mary's.
Bargate will also continue as the Saints' official new homes partner alongside its new stand partnership.
The company's managing director Mark White said becoming the first stand partner was a “real privilege”, adding that the deal reflects the development of the relationship between the two organisations.
The agreement gives Southampton another commercial opportunity within St Mary's while also putting a local business's name prominently in one of the stadium's most visible areas.
FGG says: A sensible commercial move for Southampton
It makes sense for Southampton to explore new ways of generating revenue from St Mary's, particularly with the club back in the second tier and looking to build for the future.
Making a local business the stadium's first stand partner also feels like a natural fit, especially given Bargate's existing links with the club and its community work.