New research has revealed that more than 1.9 million people over the age of 65 will be watching the biggest football tournament alone this summer, however one supermarket is aiming to tackle that head on. Asda has announced the launch of ‘Nanzones’ – the first-ever football fan zones designed for elderly people to gather, socialise and enjoy the sport together – with a Nanzone launching in Manchester for the Euros matches.
With traditional fan zones often overwhelmingly populated by rowdier crowds, it can be tempting to follow the football from the comfort of your own home. However, in a bid to combat loneliness and isolation, the new dedicated Nanzone spaces at Asda have been specially created to cater to the older generation to ensure they don’t end up watching the football alone at home.
The first Nanzones will kick off at Asda stores in Watford, Manchester Eastlands and Liverpool Arrow Park on June 20 for the England vs Denmark game. Each Nanzone will give local elderly people the chance to unite over food, drink and football. The fan zones for senior citizens are also completely free to enter and the areas will be decked out with football decorations and refreshments, offering a safe and friendly environment.
But Asda’s pledge to supporting loneliness and isolation among the elderly isn’t limited to just one night. The supermarket is putting out a nationwide call for Brits of all ages to check in on an elderly relative, friend or neighbour during the Summer of Sport, sitting with them to enjoy the game, or whatever sporting event they’re keen to watch. People of all ages are also welcome and heartily encouraged to watch the game in a Nanzone alongside elderly fans.
David Hills, Chief Customer Officer at Asda, commented: “Sport has a way of bringing people together like nothing else. That’s why we want to use the power of football fandom to help strengthen community spirit this summer – and the Nanzones sit at the heart of that ambition. Our colleagues and customers really care about supporting the elderly in their communities, and we hope that by encouraging the nation to join our pledge to bring people together, we can help combat loneliness and social isolation.”
Community champions across Asda stores have the opportunity to host Nanzone style events throughout the summer to engage with their local community groups. Anyone who wants to get involved and attend Asda’s Nanzones this summer can reach out to their community champion at their local Asda store.
For anyone wishing to attend the first Nanzone event in Manchester on June 20, contact the local community champion at Community_