CO-OP JOINS FORCES WITH ICONIC SALFORD POET TO CELEBRATE ITS ‘PROPER SOUND’ ARENA PARTNERSHIP

Co-op has teamed up with legendary poet Dr John Cooper Clarke to celebrate its unique partnership with the UK’s largest live entertainment arena – Co-op Live – with a poem that plays tribute to the city of Manchester, its people and the venue.

Dr John Cooper Clarke’s ode highlights the enduring connection between Co-op and Manchester, emphasising the impact of Co-op's presence in the community over the years.  The poem was written in Clarke's signature punk style, declaring that “a town is not a proper town without the old Co-op around.”  He continues by praising the impact Co-op Live has on the international music scene as one of the most sustainable and socially responsible venues in Europe.

Dr John Cooper Clarke said: "Co-op and me, we go way back. Growing up in the city, you couldn't miss it. It's like coming full circle - from reciting verses in the streets of Manchester to penning a poem for its largest live entertainment venue.  This ain't just some fancy new building, it's a symbol of our city - bold, brash and full of heart. And I'm chuffed to bits to be part of it. So here's to Co-op Live and its future, where punk spirit meets community vibes. It's proper sound!"

Amanda Jennings, Director of Marketing Communications, Co-op said: "I am no poet, but what I do know is Co-op is an honest and humble brand that is all about making a difference. And who better to help lead our campaign to celebrate our partnership with Co-op Live than the proper sound Mancunian Dr John Cooper Clarke? We're delighted to collaborate with John and his words perfectly capture the essence of community that Co-op, and Co-op Live, is built on."

The Proper Sound partnership follows a number of pre-sale announcements made by the arena in September, offering Co-op members first access to tickets for global stars Bruce Springsteen and Chase & Status, as well as comedian Micky Flanagan. 

As a result of Co-op’s naming right partnership, and one of the key proof points highlighted in this new campaign, Co-op Live will donate at least £1million annually to the Co-op Foundation to support communities and empower young people to take social action via the Young Game Changers Fund. 

The Young Gamechangers Fund is a ground-breaking initiative funded by the Co-op Foundation, the #iwillFund and Co-op. It offers grants of up to £20k directly to individual young people aged 10-25 to catalyse their ideas for turning their communities into safer, more sustainable and more inclusive places to live. Grants from the fund will also support youth led groups and organisations working to improve their communities. 

The Proper Sound poem is available to listen to on YouTube.