Massive Attack: Barclays & Co-Op Live Row
- Ahead of their performance at Manchester's Co-op Live, massive Attack has voiced strong disapproval of the venue's recent partnership with Barclays.
- Massive Attack, a group with a strong environmentalist ethos, highlighted that the sponsorship deal was finalized after their show was booked in January.
- To avoid disappointing fans, Massive Attack reached an agreement with Co-op Live.
Massive Attack doesn’t mince words: They slam Barclays‘ sponsorship of Manchester‘s Co-op Live, citing ethical concerns related to arms companies and fossil fuel investments. The band, known for its environmental activism, highlights that this deal materialized after they’d booked their performance for the primary_keyword. The band reached an agreement to remove all Barclays branding from the venue for their show, showcasing their resolve for the secondary_keyword. News Directory 3 covers the controversy surrounding Barclays and its association with arts events under fire. Explore the details of the band’s position and Barclays’ response. Discover what’s next regarding the band’s eco-conscious approach to live performances.
Massive Attack Condemns Barclays’ Co-op Live Sponsorship Over Ethical Concerns
updated June 05, 2025
Ahead of their performance at Manchester’s Co-op Live, massive Attack has voiced strong disapproval of the venue’s recent partnership with Barclays. The band, known for its environmental advocacy and support for Palestine, cited ethical objections to the Barclays sponsorship, notably the bank’s investments in arms companies and fossil fuel extraction.
Massive Attack, a group with a strong environmentalist ethos, highlighted that the sponsorship deal was finalized after their show was booked in January. The band views Barclays as a “profoundly unethical corporate identity” due to its financial ties to companies supplying Israel and its involvement in fossil fuel projects.
To avoid disappointing fans, Massive Attack reached an agreement with Co-op Live. The venue agreed to remove all Barclays branding from the arena and the band’s show page. No complimentary or for-sale tickets will be given to Barclays.
The band released a statement expressing their disappointment. They noted the incongruity of the partnership, especially given Co-op Live’s sustainability claims and Manchester’s progressive values. The statement read, “At a time when the world works to tackle climate emergency and watches on in despair and horror at the scenes of civilian slaughter in Gaza, we’re stunned that the arena ownership took this decision to partner with Barclays.”
Barclays’ sponsorship of musical events has drawn increasing scrutiny.The bank’s ties to arms companies supplying weapons to Israel have led to boycotts of events it sponsors. following protests, barclays withdrew its sponsorship from The Great Escape, Latitude, Download, and Isle of Wight festivals.
Robert del Naja of Massive Attack recently discussed the role of the arts in combating climate change. He emphasized the importance of breaking free from established mindsets and fostering collaboration across sectors to drive meaningful action.
Massive Attack is scheduled to headline LIDO Festival. Continuing their collaboration with Act 1.5 and Ecotricity,their set will be powered entirely by battery,reducing carbon emissions.
What’s next
Massive Attack will continue its work with act 1.5 to promote lasting live music events, aiming to reduce the environmental impact of performances through innovative approaches and partnerships.