We are fast approaching the point at which VIQI – the supporters’ group that has helped with player recruitment and retention for so many years – closes down its operations.
VIQI have been in contact with the board and are working with us now to complete their due diligence and release payments for this year; the first being £60,000 to cover December 2022 – May 2023 and the second £60,000 coming on completion of share transfer and updated due diligence.
The share that VIQI hold in the club will be transferred to Widnes VIPS, the recently formed independent supporters’ organisation with the same aims regarding player recruitment and retention.
The club are obviously in agreement with the share being transferred and this is going to be actioned within the coming weeks. The club are covering the legal costs to ensure the full amount of donations from the fans goes on player spend.
Jason Shaw will resign as a director of Widnes Vikings as part of the process, and the board thank Jason for his efforts and loyalty to the club, not confined solely to his involvement with VIQI.
VIQI Limited then look to submit final accounts in October 2023. There will be an added bonus as VIQI intends to make a final donation from the fans above and beyond this season’s commitment. The exact amount will be finalised and disclosed following the VIQI accounts being closed. This will again be donated towards player spends in 2024 season.
Of course, Widnes VIPS has already recruited members to their independent organisation, and Widnes Vikings wish their board every success going forward as they grow their membership.
Funds that VIPS raise will feed into the player spend for 2024 and beyond – into the new era imagined by the partnership of the RFL and IMG.
The club still urge fans to sign up to Widnes VIPS by clicking here.
