SALE Sharks are set to rename an AJ Bell Stadium stand after their new shirt sponsor – AO.
Sharks have signed a long-term deal with the online electrical store, which is based in Bolton.
As well as putting AO's logo on the players' shirts at the start of the new Gallagher Premiership season in two weeks, Sharks are also renaming the South Stand as the AO Stand.
Sharks CEO Sid Sutton said the deal was an exciting one for the club as it begins a 'new era'.
He said: "Everyone at the club is so excited to welcome AO to the Sharks family. I have no doubt this is a partnership that is going to drive the club onto the next level, both on and off the pitch.
"We are embarking on a new era for the club and we want to work alongside partners who we can grow with and who share our ambition, our passion for the north and our values."
AO will be involved on matchdays with giveaways, half-time activities and promotions outside the stadium before and after matches.
It will also work with the club's charity, Sharks Community Trust, on a mental health programme called 'Are you AO-K?' which is to be launched in schools across the north west of the country.
Vicky Monk, AO's director of customer and brand, said: “We're investing hugely in our brand this year and our partnership with Sale Sharks is a big part of this strategy.
“We're really looking forward to working closely together with the Trust to create and launch a highly impactful mental health programme to local schools in our region.
"It's a topic that's close to many of our hearts after the last 18 months and we are proud to be able to play a part in making a difference for young people across the north west."
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