Preston North End can today announce that it has agreed a new long-term contract with The Villa, a Wrea Green hotel and catering business owned by local entrepreneur Simon Rigby.
The Villa is to provide all catering, banqueting, hospitality and function services at Deepdale through a new venture, aptly named, The Villa at North End. In what is being described as an ‘exciting new venture’, both parties will work together to build Deepdale into the conference and banqueting venue provider of choice.
The Villa at North End will operate on matchdays and throughout the year.
Recently, hospitality provision has been split, and this single operator agreement will give greater focus and clarity on the opportunities that exist at the home of Preston North End.
Kevin Abbott, PNE’s finance director, was very pleased to have concluded the partnership, he said: “We are delighted to have entered into this agreement with such a well known and successful local business.
“The Villa already has an excellent reputation for the provision of banqueting and catering services and we are confident that Simon shares the same vision for the opportunity that exists at Deepdale.
“We have a perfect location within the City, coupled with excellent and flexible facilities plus substantial car parking. This truly is an opportunity to develop an already successful part of our business.”
Simon Rigby added: “Preston North End have the infrastructure and drive to be right at the top of football and this is a great opportunity for The Villa at North End to grow with the Club.”
Richard Simkin, who will take the role of general manager of The Villa at North End is also looking forward to growing the business at Deepdale, he said: “The Villa, combined with Deepdale's facilities, creates a unique world class setting for parties, conferences and exhibitions.”