Coca-Cola Enterprises Ltd (CCE) has today announced it will be an official drinks supplier to the iconic Manchester Evening News (Manchester) Arena and several other SMG Europe venues.

The three-year deal will see CCE provide the venues with Coca-Cola products including Coca-Cola, Diet Coke, Coke Zero, Sprite, Fanta, Powerade and Schweppes Abbey Well. The contract was awarded by SMG Europe, the largest operator of indoor entertainment arenas in the UK with venues across Europe. Further discussions will take place in 2012 to include the new Leeds Arena in the deal, so that CCE will supply drinks to the venue when it opens in 2013.

As a result of the deal, consumers at the Manchester Arena will benefit from a wide range of Coca-Cola programmes and promotions.  For example, the 2011 Coca-Cola Olympic Torch Tour stops off at the Manchester Arena on Wednesday 31 August, where fans of Arcade Fire will be invited to nominate Future Flames - inspirational young people who deserve to carry the Olympic Flame in the London 2012 Olympic Torch Relay next Summer.

Over the last few weeks CCE have been engaging with all sites to arrange equipment placement and signage. Full implementation will be completed by the 31 August in time for Manchester Arena's re-opening for the winter season and events.

Commenting on the deal, Andrew Milne, CCE Regional Sales Director (North Region), explained, "This is a fantastic fit with CCE's portfolio of soft drinks brands.  We are really looking forward to working with the SMG team and to making sure visitors to the Manchester Arena and venues enjoy our full range of drinks."