News 2003
Virgin Mobile - The official Communications Partner of the McKenzie Group Ltd
20/05/2003
Virgin Mobile and the McKenzie Group (MKG) today announced that Virgin Mobile is to become the Official Communications Partner for the independent venue owners. The McKenzie Group owns and operates a number of successful live music venues across the United Kingdom: Shepherd’s Bush Empire (London), Carling Academy Brixton (London), Carling Academy Birmingham, Carling Academy Bristol, Carling Academy Glasgow and its latest acquisition; Carling Academy Liverpool (opening late summer 2003).
Virgin Mobile will be unveiling its programme of venue activities over the coming weeks to bring music-lovers closer to the bands than ever before. There will be opportunities to text bands, win gig tickets with travel and hospitality, gain access to after-show parties, receive exclusive show announcements, and get all the latest music news and gossip; Virgin Mobile also plans to host its own club nights.
Stephen Rogan, Sponsorship Manager at Virgin Mobile, said: “We are really excited about the opportunities this deal gives us. Making music fans the focus and enhancing their experiences is what’s important to us and this sponsorship gives us the opportunity to do that.”
The McKenzie Group partnership is a three-year deal, and is part of Virgin Mobile’s ongoing music sponsorship strategy, which also includes the headline sponsorship of the V Festival, which in August celebrates its 8th year, and features headliners such as such as Coldplay, The Red Hot Chili Peppers and the Foo Fighters.
Virgin Mobile’s music sponsorships will all be brought together under one electronic ‘roof’ at its forthcoming new website, www.virginmobilelouder.com, which aims to unite communities of music lovers and critics, and will provide the latest music news, gig guides, listings information and the facility to buy tickets, invite friends and plan your night out.
MKG Managing Director John Northcote, adds: “Following the agreement with Coors for the Carling brand, the deal with Virgin Mobile is an important step in making better contact with thousands of music fans that visit the Academy venues every year. We’re looking forward to working with Virgin Mobile on a range of activities that are mutually beneficial to Virgin, MKG venues and live music fans.”
