Ahead of the 2021/22 campaign preparations have been stepping up at Pittodrie for the return of supporters, including a revamp for the Red Shed.

In recent seasons the Club has stated its commitment to improving the matchday experience and investing in fan engagement but unfortunately many of those plans had to be put on hold due to the global pandemic.

However, central to this summer’s renovations and clean-up operation has been the investment in commissioning local artist, Reckless Graffiti, to transform the Merkland Stand into the Red Shed with a series of art inspired by suggestions from the Red Army.

In addition to the artwork in the Merkland Stand, work is also due to be carried out to give other parts of the stadium a ‘lift’ which our Commercial Director, Rob Wicks, explains in more detail in the video below.

“To see the artwork in place feels like a real step forwards as it has been something we have been looking to do for a while. Over 1,000 supporters responded last summer when we asked for input into artwork around Pittodrie and since then we have been looking to incorporate many of those suggestions into a couple of projects including this one.

“Our Supporter Liaison Officer, Lynn Fiske, has carried out vital work with a smaller group of supporters since then to finalise the designs along with Reckless Graffiti who has done a fantastic job.

“We want to drive fan engagement as a key cornerstone of what we do as a Club. The Merkland Stand with the Red Shed is integral to that and since it’s successful trial across two Scottish Cup matches in early 2020, we’ve been eager to see the Red Shed in full flow for every match, restoring a real home advantage to Pittodrie.

“The response to the initial images of the artwork on social media has been terrific. We want to restore some pride, make sure our supporters are excited about returning, and ultimately that they come back to a stadium which has grown and developed. Perhaps more importantly we want it to reflect our identity as a Club.

“Whilst the Merkland Stand is the centre piece of these improvements, there will also be new signage and branding in the Main Stand, and we’ll be updating the branding in the South Stand to give that area a lift. We remain committed to investing further in the matchday experience and picking things like a fan zone up again when restrictions ease.

“We hope all this work behind the scenes gives supporters, who we know are excited about the prospect of a return to Pittodrie, confidence that the Red Shed, and in fact the whole stadium, will roar next season and inspire them to join us as a season ticket member.

You can still secure your season ticket for all areas of the ground at early bird pricing by purchasing before 2nd July. Over 1,000 supporters have already committed to the Red Shed where prices start from £68 for Under 18s with further discounts available for AberDNA members.

Sign-up now online or call the Pittodrie Ticket Office on 01224 63 1903.