HMG Paints’ Durable Floor Coating Transforms FC United’s SMRE Bar into a Refreshed Fan Hub

The latest stage of the partnership between HMG Paints and FC United has been completed with the successful refurbishment of the St. Mary’s Road End (SMRE) Bar floor at Broadhurst Park. The bar, known for its unique display of club memorabilia and its vibrant community atmosphere, has been refreshed by staff and volunteers with a new grey finish using HMG’s Polyurethane Floor Paint.

The project is the latest phase of the club’s commitment to creating a welcoming and versatile space for fans, players, students and community groups alike. The SMRE Bar painted in FC United’s traditional colours of red, black, and white, not only honours the club’s history but also provides a comfortable environment for fans to gather before and after games to enjoy a pint and watch bands, poets and comedians together.

Beyond match days, the SMRE space serves a dual purpose. The far end can be isolated to create a classroom space for the FC United Academy, where young players continue their education before hitting the club’s 3G pitches. Additionally, the versatile room is regularly used by community groups on both evenings, weekends and during school holidays, providing a safe and functional space for various activities.

Paul Haworth, FC United’s Commercial Manager, expressed his gratitude, stating “Thanks to the help of HMG Paints the floor looks great. The fresh flooring and updated paintwork across the bar adds a professional touch to the space, making it more inviting for fans, staff, students and community groups. We appreciate the support from HMG Paints and the hard work of our volunteers.”

HMG’s Polyurethane Floor Paint, which was used in the project is a single-pack, versatile, and durable floor coating. Suitable for internal and external use, the floor paint provides good resistance to oils, grease, and thankfully beer spilt by celebrating supporters, and is designed for areas subject to light to medium foot traffic. The paint is easy to apply, touch-dry within 2 hours, and can be recoated after 16 hours. For added safety, the paint can also be formulated to be low-slip, with the addition of HMG’s Low Slip Additive.

James Burton of HMG Paints added “It’s great to see the bar looking so good, and it’s a great showcase for Manchester and the community nature of the club. Supporters can enjoy the new look bar knowing the paint is made locally by fellow fans and enjoy a pint of Joseph Holt beer which is also brewed in Manchester. The integration between local people, businesses and the club are what helps make FC United such a special club and we’re proud to partner with them.”