MUMBAI: ICICI Bank, India’s largest private sector bank by consolidated assets, has agreed to a multi-year partnership with Premier League giants Manchester United, bringing a range of competitive co-branded credit and debit cards to the club’s 35 million Indian followers.
This marks the first instance of an Indian bank sponsoring a European football team. However, it follows the footsteps of the government-owned Bank of Baroda that became the first Indian bank to sponsor the FIFA Under-17 World Cup last year.
As part of the agreement, ICICI will be offering fans of the club two types of credit card – Manchester United Platinum Credit Card and Manchester United Signature Credit Card by ICICI Bank. Each card will come with competitive rates, as well as qualifying for a wide range of exclusive privileges and discounts on merchandise from United’s online store and other affiliated partners in India. The Manchester United range of debit cards will be made available shortly as well.
Privileges include, fully paid trips to Old Trafford to watch a game, the chance to observe a first team training session, signed merchandise as well as a Manchester United welcome gift for each new customer.
Anup Bagchi, executive director, ICICI Bank said: “We are delighted to partner with Manchester United, the English Premier League football club, to introduce a range of bank’s variants of credit and debit cards. This collaboration further underscores our commitment to deliver innovative, powerful and distinctive value propositions to our customers. These co-branded cards are yet another compelling proposition to cater to the fans of the iconic football club in the country. This launch re-affirms our commitment to bring in world class privileges to our customers. We believe that this card will be yet another imperative addition to our existing range of credit and debit cards.”
Manchester United Group managing director Richard Arnold commented: “The club has enjoyed numerous visits to India over the past few seasons, with our #ILOVEUNITED fan event held in Mumbai in January, attracting almost 5,000 fans to the live match screening. Our partnership with ICICI Bank means we can continue to engage and communicate with these loyal fans whilst offering them quality financial products from one of India’s most reputable banking groups.”
