A SMALL local brewery has begun “a unique collaboration” with Sunderland AFC ahead of the new EFL season.

The agreement will see a five-year link between the Maxim Brewery and the League One club, along with its principal drink partner, Molson Coors.

It means for the first time in 24 years the brewery’s Samson beer will be served by the club, its first appearance at the Stadium of Light, since it opened in 1997.

The deal rekindles an historic partnership with the synonymous local brand, as Samson featured on Sunderland shirts from 1994 to 97, prior to the closure of the old Vaux brewery in the city, two years later.

Maxim Brewery acquired the rights and now produces Samson among its range of revived former Vaux beers at its Rainton Bridge brewery, in nearby Houghton-le-Spring.

Managing director Mark Anderson said such a deal was, “quite unique for a small brewer like us .”

He added: “We were delighted when Sunderland AFC gave us the opportunity to return a locally brewed draught beer to all the bars at the Stadium of Light .”

 

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