English Football League and eBay launch Small Businesses United

The English Football League (EFL) has announced a three-year partnership ahead of the start of the 2021/22 season with eBay that will celebrate local businesses in communities around all 72 EFL clubs.

Through the launch of Small Businesses United, the tie up will see eBay donate advertising space at EFL grounds to the small businesses on its marketplace.

Ben Wright, Chief Commercial Officer at the EFL, says: “This is an exciting addition to our portfolio of official partners and highlights how we want to support the local businesses who have in turn done so much to help our clubs.”

“We are really pleased to be able to support growing businesses through all 72 EFL clubs and the Small Businesses United initiative.”

“It is a fantastic opportunity for supporters of our clubs to see their own businesses advertised in EFL stadia nationwide, and demonstrates again how the EFL can support positive and impactful local community activation on a national scale.”

Rob Hattrell, SVP & Head of eBay Europe, adds: “eBay UK and the EFL know that local business and football clubs are the backbone of our communities, sharing a history of mutual support that we’re so excited to celebrate with Small Businesses United.”

“After the financial trials of the pandemic, it’s more important than ever for eBay to continue to shine a spotlight on the power of small business, and to champion the sport we know and love.”

He continues: “The excitement surrounding English football is at a real high this year, and we’re seeing that replicated on eBay with huge demand for the equipment needed for the grassroots game.”

“That’s why we’ll be looking to extend our support beyond the professional clubs, to further boost local communities - all thanks to the power of eBay’s 300,000 small business sellers.”

JoeJoeJMS Cards & Collectibles

21 year old Joe, who runs JoeJoeJMS Cards & Collectibles (pictured above), found out this week that his eBay business will be the first to be represented at his local team’s ground.

Former professional footballer and TV presenter Dion Dublin comments: “As an ex-footballer, and someone who has run my own businesses, I think it’s incredibly important that football clubs work closely with businesses in their surroundings.”

“This partnership between the EFL and eBay will help many small businesses to grow in size and will bring a real sense of community to the 72 clubs involved.”