Rochdale AFC’s new owner signs AML

One of England’s oldest professional football clubs Rochdale AFC is set for an ambitious programme of regeneration after a dramatic rescue by local tech entrepreneurs the Ogden family, who have now brought AML into the team.

Founded in 1907, Rochdale AFC has been a point of continuity in the town’s history. An early powerhouse of the industrial revolution and cradle of the co-operative movement, the community has more recently been rocked by social and political change.

AML will work with the new management to create a forward-looking creative identity that helps drive development plans for the club and fans, the ground, social impact and economic growth in the town.

Co-chair and lead investor Cameron Ogden said,

“Rochdale is a town and a club with a proud history. We’re in it to make a difference for the new generation growing up in Rochdale, with the football club at its heart. We’re delighted to have the skills of AML in the squad.”

Together the new team aims to follow the success of clubs with clear purpose beyond football like Forest Green, Lewes and St Pauli in Germany. Media interest outside the Premier League has been driven by popular TV series including Mission to Burnley or Ryan Reynolds’ Welcome to Wrexham.

AML CEO Ian Henderson added,

“What the Ogden family are doing is amazing and they have a terrific team around them. AML is delighted to be part of that – it’s not going to happen overnight, but as always AML is committed to long-term partnerships that really make a difference.”