RFU and RBS Announce Enhanced Partnership

The Rugby Football Union (RFU) and The Royal Bank of Scotland Group (RBS) have announced an enhanced partnership focused on supporting the grassroots game. 

The relationship will deliver both an expanded RugbyForce programme, as part of the RFU’s commitment to strengthen its member clubs, and additional benefits across other areas. 

RBS RugbyForce was launched in 2009 to help clubs improve their facilities by providing them with resources and guidance to co-ordinate a community-wide weekend of DIY. The intention is to enable clubs to drive engagement with the local community and increase membership and revenue opportunities as a result of developing their clubhouses. 

The RFU has, in addition, entered into a new corporate banking agreement with RBS Corporate Banking division to provide its banking and investment services for the next five years. 

Sophie Goldschmidt, RFU Chief Commercial Officer said: ‘RBS is a longstanding supporter of Rugby Union and its proactive approach benefits multiple levels of the game. It is the first official RFU banking partnership with a commitment to grassroots investment, financial service provision, and additional benefits. The extension of this important relationship reinforces our commercial strategy to have fewer, more integrated and impactful partnerships.” 

Bruce Cook, Head of RBS Group Sponsorship said: “Rugby clubs sit at the heart of many communities in England. These communities are important to us and we remain committed to strengthen those in which we live and work. Since we launched RBS RugbyForce, almost 400 clubs in England have registered for the initiative. We are delighted to enhance our partnership with the RFU to amplify the benefit and reach of the programme for their clubs and the communities that they serve.” 

Philip Brown, RBS Corporate & Institutional Banking Director said: "The next few years - culminating in England hosting the Rugby World Cup - promise to be a very exciting time for the RFU. We are looking forward to working closely with the RFU during this period and beyond with investment that will benefit the Union and rugby fans up and down the country."