Gary Neville Celebrates Small Businesses in Greater Manchester

Small businesses in Greater Manchester received a festive boost as former Manchester United and England footballer Gary Neville joined a celebration honoring their contributions to local communities. The event, organized by software company Sage and the English Football League (EFL), took place at Salford City FC’s stadium.

Sage’s Secret Santa Competition

This celebration marked the start of Sage’s nationwide Secret Santa competition, which launched on November 2. The initiative allows supporters of all 72 EFL clubs to nominate local businesses for a share of £100,000.

Independent retailers, tradespeople, and accountants gathered at the Salford event. It recognized their role in supporting football communities and helping customers prepare for Christmas. Attendees included representatives from bakeries, barbers, and home fragrance businesses, as well as Salford-based Phoenix Flooring.

Recognizing Local Businesses

Simon Peers, owner of Phoenix Flooring, emphasized the importance of meeting customer deadlines during the festive period. He stated, Christmas is one of those moments when deadlines really matter to our customers. Peers appreciated the recognition and the opportunity to connect with other Greater Manchester businesses dedicated to making Christmas special for their customers.

Business owners enjoyed a behind-the-scenes stadium tour, a festive meal, and a discussion about the relationship between football, business, and community. Sky Sports presenter David Prutton hosted the discussion, featuring Gary Neville, Sage’s Sally Moore, and Salford City players Joe Powell and Paolo Mariani.

Football and Community

Gary Neville, also a Sage ambassador, highlighted the role of local businesses in bringing football communities to life. He said, Football clubs sit at the heart of their communities, but it’s the local businesses around them that help bring those communities to life every day.

This event was the first of three celebrations organized through Sage’s partnership with the EFL. Subsequent events are scheduled at AFC Wimbledon on November 3 and Middlesbrough FC on November 5.

Sally Moore, senior director of global sponsorship at Sage, acknowledged the efforts of small businesses during the festive season. She stated, Christmas doesn’t just happen. Moore expressed Sage’s desire to recognize the expertise, hard work, and community contributions of these businesses.

For more information about Sage’s partnership with the EFL, visit their partnership page.