The Scottish Rugby Union is seeking a sponsorship deal "that could see Murrayfield renamed," according to BBC.com. CEO Mark Dodson said that a sponsorship "could generate million of pounds a year." Dodson said, "The single biggest piece of our inventory is our national stadium. We would like to see if we can monetise that." Increasing revenue for Scottish rugby "was one of the aims laid out in Dodson's four-year strategic plan, which was released in June" (BBC.com, 10/29). The SCOTSMAN reported the SRU "will attempt to raise a seven-figure sum from allowing private firms to bid to have their name added to the national stadium." Negotiations with commercial parties "are already under way as the governing body seeks to pay off a £13M ($20.9M) debt." When EPL club Newcastle United "went down a similar route by calling St. James’ Park the Sports Direct Arena there was uproar amongst fans." Dodson admitted that "there is likely to be a similar backlash regarding a stadium, which opened in '25, and which, over the years, has played host to a range of high-profile events" (SCOTSMAN, 10/30).
