Liverpool FC and Japanese publisher Kodansha have announced the renewal of a long-term partnership which will see both parties work in tandem on creating charitable initiatives.
Kondansha became the Premier League side’s official publication partner back in 2021 and further extended the partnership, covering both the men’s and women’s teams to support the growth of the club.
The partnership will aim to “inspire future generations” with community work via an initiative entitled ‘Inspire Impossible Stories’ which will work alongside the club’s LFC Foundation. The collaboration aims to provide young people with a chance to express themselves through storytelling.
This new, long-term commitment will see the programme expand into the USA, as the Kodansha and LFC Foundation aim to build on the impact the programme has had in the UK.
Ben Latty, Commercial Director at Liverpool FC, said: “We are delighted to announce the extension of our partnership with Kodansha, even more so following on from the incredible displays in Tate, Liverpool a few weeks ago.
“Our activations with Kodansha over the last two years truly embody the term ‘partnership’. There is a true alignment in values between LFC and Kodansha, which we are excited to build upon.
“This extension will see significant support and focus on the brilliant work of LFC Foundation and see us expand that work into the USA. It’s also pleasing to see Kodansha extend their support of the club to both the men’s and women’s teams.”
Through this partnership, Liverpool has supported Kodansha to drive brand awareness globally and reach unconnected audiences. In this period, Liverpool and Kodansha have connected with more than 850 schoolchildren in the city, while helping 40 young people graduate through LFC Foundation’s Creative Works programme.
Most recently, Kodansha, Liverpool and the LFC Foundation exhibited at Tate Liverpool, providing a chance for local children, artists and visitors to enjoy art.
Tokuo Kanemaru, Senior Vice President and COO at Kodansha, added: “We take great pride in the extension of this agreement, which allows us to be a part of Liverpool FC’s illustrious history and to leave our legacy. Let’s continue to join hands and inspire people all over the world together.
“Furthermore, our partnership with the women’s team is profoundly meaningful to us. We hope that this partnership will serve as a catalyst for their further achievements and will continue to captivate audiences with its creativity.”
