Gillingham FC and Hochiki Europe partnership announced

Gillingham Football Club has announced Hochiki Europe as the new sponsor for the Rainham End at Priestfield Stadium.

The sponsorship agreement, which lasts until the end of the 2026/27 season, will see the stand renamed as ‘The Rainham End in partnership with Hochiki’.

Hochiki Europe, whose head office and manufacturing plant has been in Gillingham for over 30 years, is renowned for its production of commercial fire detection and emergency lighting products.

The company, originally founded in Tokyo, Japan, in 1918, selected Gillingham for its European operations due to the historical connection between the town and Japan.

Hochiki’s expansion in Medway

The company’s operations in the Medway region have recently expanded.

Hochiki Europe announced a multi-million-pound investment in a new shipping and warehousing hub in Chatham.

The new 24,000 sq ft facility will significantly increase their storage capacity from 480 to 2,450 pallets.

This investment is expected to reduce picking times from seven minutes per line to three minutes per line, enhancing the efficiency and reliability of their supply chain for life safety devices and systems.

Statements from club and company leaders

Joe Comper, Managing Director of Gillingham FC, expressed enthusiasm for the new partnership.

He said: “We are excited to welcome Hochiki as The Rainham End’s official partner.

“We have been working closely with Hochiki over the last year and they have been amazing.

“It’s very important for the club to have partners that value the community of Kent as much as Hochiki do.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank the team there for their fantastic support and I am looking forward to watching this partnership grow.”

Shinsuke Kubo, Managing Director of Hochiki, highlighted their commitment to the local community.

He stated: “Hochiki Europe has had headquarters in Gillingham for 31 years and we’re proud to continue our support of the local community.

“To celebrate our new partnership, Gills fans will have the chance to win a host of prizes including a VIP experience at the Millwall friendly, training ground visits, and match tickets courtesy of Hochiki.

“Fans should keep an eye on the Gills’ social media channels to find out how to win.”

Benefits for fans and the community

This partnership promises benefits for both Hochiki Europe and Gillingham Football Club.

Fans can anticipate exclusive prize giveaways, while the club gains a partner that shares a commitment to the Kent community.

Hochiki Europe continues to strengthen its presence in the Medway region, demonstrating its dedication to supporting local initiatives and fostering community spirit.