Northern Ireland’s fastest-growing telecommunications company, Barclay Communications, sponsors Down Royal hospitality suite in new £45k contract
Barclay Communications’ move to put its name over the renowned corporate space and a number of race day events at the stadium, is part of a multi-million-pound investment in developing the business
Belfast-based Barclay Communications has moved to the next phase of its 2021 marketing strategy by investing in the exclusive sponsorship of one of Down Royal’s luxury hospitality suites.
The space, which provides premium views of the Parade Ring, and the perfect setting for private events, will now be called the Barclay Communications Suite and adds another equestrian element to the telecom group’s recreational business interests.
Britt Megahey, Founder and Managing Director of Barclay Communications, alongside his sons Christopher and Harold Megahey, manages a number of businesses related to the sport. This includes Glenpatrick Horseboxes and Glenpatrick Stables, based in Templepatrick, Northern Ireland and Westbury Stables located in Berlaarbaan, Belgium.
The Megahey family has invested £650,000 in developing the new stable facilities, while Harold and Chris are decorated show jumping athletes.
As part of its new partnership with Down Royal, Barclay Communications will be a race sponsor on Day 2, NI Festival of Racing 2021 and Day 2 of the Summer Festival of Racing, Derby Day 2022.
In addition to race titles, and putting its name behind the hospitality suite, Barclay Communications’ new branding will also feature throughout the racecourse.
Speaking about the three-year contract, Britt Megahey, said: “We are delighted to launch this new partnership with Down Royal by sponsoring its hospitality suite.
“Barclay Communications has been very privileged over the past year as our business grew exponentially, beckoning some of our biggest contracts yet. That growth has allowed us to invest even more into ensuring our customers have the best possible experience from every aspect of the business.
“To allow us to do this, it’s important that we demonstrate the ways we are revolutionising how businesses communicate, both in-house and remotely. Our new contract with Down Royal will allow us to promote this message to local business owners.
“We look forward to working with Down Royal over the next few years supporting its growth, as well as enjoying the return of horse racing to the social calendar.
“We look forward to welcoming guests to the Barclay Communications Suite.”
The Barclay Group’s growth during the pandemic surpassed targets, with turnover exceeding £20million. A similar growth rate is expected for 2021.
As a result of the latter success, the Group recently announced an investment of over £1.8million in new systems and new people to cater to heightened demand. A dedicated £400,000 marketing budget has also been assigned to increase awareness of the Group’s product offering in international markets and the Barclay Communications Suite at Down Royal is part of that investment.
Emma Meehan, Chief Executive of Down Royal Racecourse, commented: “A very welcome addition to our list of prestige business partners, Barclay Communications has, over the past two decades, become synonymous for customer service and helping businesses stay connected, and we are delighted to secure their support.
“The Megahey family has a genuine passion for the equine industry so it is extremely fitting that their backing and investment sees them sponsor one of our premier hospitality suites and races at two of Down Royal’s main racing fixtures on the 2021/22 calendar.
“Through this new partnership, we hope to enhance the race-going experience and give people an extra reason to visit Down Royal and to keep coming back.
“We look forward to working with the team and to building a long and mutually beneficial relationship for both brands.”
