Sunderland AFC Teams Up with Thorn and Zumtobel for Comprehensive Stadium Lighting Upgrade

Sunderland AFC Teams Up with Thorn and Zumtobel for Comprehensive Stadium Lighting Upgrade

(IN BRIEF) Sunderland AFC has partnered with Thorn and Zumtobel to complete a major lighting upgrade at the Stadium of Light. The installation aims to improve the matchday experience while supporting the club’s sustainability goals, providing a cutting-edge lighting solution across the stadium and key facilities.

(PRESS RELEASE) DORNBIRN, 14-Nov-2024 — /EuropaWire/ — Thorn and Zumtobel, renowned lighting brands under the Zumtobel Group, have announced a strategic partnership with Sunderland Association Football Club (Sunderland AFC) to lead a comprehensive lighting upgrade at the Stadium of Light. This project is part of the club’s largest investment in the stadium in over 20 years and aligns with Sunderland AFC’s long-term sustainability objectives, which include achieving energy self-sufficiency by 2028.

The newly upgraded lighting system was first showcased during Sunderland’s recent matches against Derby County and Leeds United, receiving rave reviews from fans both inside the stadium and those watching the live broadcast on Sky Sports. The enhanced lighting has elevated the matchday experience, creating a more dynamic and immersive atmosphere that has drawn widespread praise from supporters.

A key reason Sunderland AFC chose Thorn and Zumtobel for this project was the proximity of the Spennymoor manufacturing plant, located just 21 miles from the stadium. This local production not only enabled a quicker delivery and installation process but also supported the regional economy while providing top-quality, energy-efficient lighting solutions for the club.

The lighting upgrades span beyond the stadium itself to key facilities, including the Eppleton Colliery Welfare Ground (Hetton Centre), the Academy of Light training facility, gym, and training barn. Additionally, the exterior canopy, public concourses, and hospitality zones, including Quinns Bar, the Business Lounge, and the Montgomery Suite, were also upgraded.

For this project, Thorn’s Altis system, used by prestigious clubs like Boca Juniors, and Zumtobel’s SLOTLIGHT infinity, CRAFT II Performance, and LITECOM lighting management system were selected. These innovative solutions improve visibility, light quality, and ambiance throughout the venue. Special attention was given to pitch lighting to ensure optimal TV broadcast quality, with precise flicker measurements and light level assessments backed by the Zumtobel Group’s advanced expertise.

Paul Kilburn, Managing Director at Thorn and Zumtobel – UK & Ireland, said, “We are thrilled to partner with Sunderland AFC and play a role in illuminating key areas of the Stadium of Light. This partnership reflects years of collaboration and shared commitment to providing innovative lighting solutions. It is particularly meaningful for us to return to the Stadium of Light, having been involved in the original Roker Park site and the 1996/1997 Stadium of Light build, as well as the 2013 floodlighting upgrade with Altis HID technology. With our plant located in Spennymoor, this project is particularly close to home for us.”

The partnership also includes Thorn Lighting’s role as a Club Partner, with the Thorn logo prominently displayed on Sunderland AFC’s website and throughout the Business Lounge. Additionally, the collaboration includes matchday tickets for key fixtures, strengthening the relationship between the two organizations.

David Bruce, Sunderland AFC’s Chief Business Officer, commented, “We are constantly looking for new ways to enhance the fan experience, and Thorn and Zumtobel have proven to be essential partners in bringing fresh energy to matchdays at the Stadium of Light. Their focus on quality, attention to detail, and close collaboration with our Head of Facilities, Chris Ferguson, and his team, has resulted in an exceptional offering for our fans. These upgrades will not only enhance our football events but also elevate experiences across our multi-event calendar, from concerts to other sports, keeping us at the forefront of in-stadia engagement.”

Media Contact:

Zumtobel Group Press Team
+43 5572 509 575
press@zumtobelgroup.com

SOURCE: Zumtobel