Manchester United has announced a groundbreaking international expansion. The club plans to open a series of high-tech entertainment centres in China, with the first set to launch by the end of 2020.
This initiative is aimed at bringing interactive and immersive experiences to millions of fans, further solidifying Manchester United’s presence in one of its most significant global markets.
Partnership with Harves
Manchester United has unveiled plans to open a series of tech-driven entertainment and experience centres across China. This ambitious endeavour is in collaboration with Harves, a prominent Chinese property developer.
The initial centres are set to launch in Beijing, Shanghai, and Shenyang by the end of 2020. The Beijing centre will be a part of the Beijing FUN development, situated in the historic Qianmen Dashilan area, close to Tiananmen Square and the Forbidden City.
Immersive Fan Experiences
Each centre will offer a unique, interactive, and immersive experience. Cutting-edge technology will be utilised to bring the excitement of Manchester United to fans in China. Visitors will be able to feel the thrill of a matchday at Old Trafford.
In addition to these experiences, the centres will provide educational opportunities for fans to learn about the club’s rich history and heritage.
Visitors can enjoy a variety of facilities, including themed restaurants and a retail store offering official club merchandise.
Statements from Key Figures
Richard Arnold, Manchester United’s group managing director, expressed his enthusiasm for the new venture. He highlighted the club’s long-standing relationship with Chinese fans, dating back to the club’s first visit to China in 1975.
“We’re very excited to be partnering with Harves on the Manchester United Entertainment and Experience Centres concept, offering our millions of Chinese fans the chance to experience the club in a new and innovative way,” Arnold stated.
Arnold also noted that this new initiative will enable Chinese fans to connect more closely with the club they cherish.
A Growing Fan Base
Manchester United boasts an estimated 100 million followers in China. This massive fan base has been cultivated over decades, starting with the club’s pioneering efforts to broadcast games in the region.
The club was the first to tour China, and it has continually worked to engage its supporters through various fan events and initiatives.
Bo Zhang, CEO of Harves, reminisced about his own experiences with Manchester United, recalling how he would set an alarm to watch live broadcasts of the club’s matches.
Integration of Technology and Tradition
Harves CEO Bo Zhang emphasised the importance of integrating modern technology with Manchester United’s storied legacy. He praised the club’s unique approach to training, its leadership, and its status as the world’s most successful football club.
“Manchester United was also the first to host fan events in the country. But they are so much more than a football club,” Zhang remarked. “We will create a fully immersive experience that entertains, educates, and inspires the next generation of football fans.”
The centres aim to blend Manchester United’s rich history and heritage with contemporary technological advancements to provide an engaging and educational experience.
Exciting Future Prospects
The launch of these centres marks a significant milestone in Manchester United’s international expansion. The initiative aims to strengthen the club’s presence and deepen its connection with fans around the world.
By offering extraordinary experiences and state-of-the-art facilities, the club hopes to attract both lifelong supporters and new fans alike.
This innovative project demonstrates Manchester United’s commitment to embracing modern technology and expanding its global footprint.
Manchester United’s collaboration with Harves to create tech-driven entertainment centres is set to redefine fan engagement in China.
As these centres open, they will offer fans unparalleled access to the club’s history and matchday experiences, fostering a deeper connection with Manchester United.