McDonald’s Australia has inked a landmark agreement with the Australian Professional Leagues (APL) designed to strengthen the connection between grassroots participants and the professional game.
The new partnership will see McDonald’s become the Official Quick Service Restaurant Partner and McCafé the Coffee Partner to the A-League, Westfield W-League and the E-League. The relationship will also extend to nine APL clubs, including three new relationships with Brisbane Roar FC, Macarthur FC and Western United FC.
Through the partnership, McDonald’s is expanding its commitment to support grassroots football on scale with the ‘Macca’s Half-Time Heroes’ activation. A series of small- sided games played at half-time, the Macca’s Half-Time Heroes is designed to create opportunities for families to experience football firsthand, supported by ticket giveaways and competitions.
Ant Hearne, Chief Commercial Officer of APL, said the partnership with McDonald’s was an exciting development for football at all levels:
“Our shared passion for the game is at the heart of our partnership with McDonald’s, and they have recognised the unique moment in time for the growth of our game.
“We’ve got two million people playing football in Australia and we want to give them the best possible access to the highest level of football in this country through APL. This partnership with McDonald’s enables deeper connections between young players and their A-League and Westfield W-League heroes and we’re delighted to expand our relationship.”
Amanda Nakad, Marketing Manager, McDonald’s Australia said:
“We’re proud to play an active role in communities across Australia, and are thrilled to be a foundation partner of the Australian Professional Leagues.
“Working together, we hope to help further connect fans and players to the sport they love, ultimately getting more people playing, watching and supporting the great game of football.
“Football has a terrific atmosphere – everyone is made feel welcome at their local A- and W-League or junior club and feels immediately at home. We love that aspect of sociability and familiarity, that’s so aligned to what we strive to provide in our restaurants.”
