Potato Company Albert Bartlett Sponsors Airdrie United

Scottish First Division club, capsule Airdrie United have agreed a new sponsorship deal with Albert Bartlett with the potato company investing a “significant” four-figure sum this season to back the Diamonds’ youth pathway scheme.

The potato company will sponsor the infrastructure of the project, medstore which is developing youngsters from under-13 to under-19 level.

In addition to the support provided last term, Bartlett’s are leading the nutrition component of the sports science aspect, designed to give guidance to young players on staying healthy.

Commercial manager John Drysdale said: “We’re delighted with the agreement and Albert Bartlett’s decision to extend their partnership with us.

“The company have been very interested in the youth development and community side of things.

“They are leading the nutrition part of the new youth pathway sports science component. A nutritionist is talking to the players, telling them how to eat and drink properly, which is excellent.

“Bartlett’s are also sponsoring the Airdrie Aces, the young supporters’ club, so they are active and looking to play their part.”

“We try to give value for money in return for sponsorship and advertising income,” he added. “We want people to enjoy themselves here.

“There has been an increase in the commercial side of things – but not as much as we would have liked.

“The events of the summer had an impact in the early stages in terms of matchday hospitality but we are over that now and it’s back to where it was last season. Stadium advertising has also improved.

“We want to consolidate in the First Division. That is the aim of everybody at the club.”

Airdrie are without a home shirt sponsor although Advance Construction, last season’s backers, renewed for another year to have their name and logo emblazoned on the away jerseys.