We (Everton FC) have built a magnificent new stadium on the Liverpool waterfront, with stunning views of one of the most iconic buildings in the nation - the Royal Liver Building. It cost us in the region of £800million to build. It is a privilege to view it from the road, let alone see Everton win there in front of 50,000 singing Blues. There have been some teething problems and debate has raged over the capacity, but ultimately it is a truly world-class stadium. Handsome, too, what with the brickwork that is in keeping with the surrounding historical buildings. I also love that the Grade II listed perimeter wall has been restored. This stadium has the opportunity to put us as a club back on the map, particularly when we host the Euros in just over 2 years' time.
However, when my son's clients from overseas come to visit Liverpool and see our magnificent new home from outside, all they see are the words Hill Dickinson. We paid £800million to build it, so how much are they paying us to essentially take ownership of the branding of our new home? I think the word Everton only features in tiny letters on the small Everton crests. These can hardly be seen from the road or the river, but the words Hill Dickinson can be. I've heard that they only pay us around £10million per annum, but that can't be correct?
I make this post not to cause mischief, but to ask a genuine question. If they are literally paying for the stadium over the course of a decade, then fair enough. But £10million seems like relative pocket change.
