Wrexham AFC is thrilled to announce the Allyn family of Skaneateles, New York, as minority investors in the club, a move that promises to bring fresh energy to the team’s ambitious goals both on and off the field. The Allyn family, who are respected for their legacy with Welch Allyn, Inc., a renowned medical device company, have transitioned to purpose-driven investments through their family office after selling their company in 2015. The family has a strong record of community investment, particularly through the Allyn Family Foundation, which has been instrumental in revitalizing areas in Syracuse, New York, with projects like Salt City Market.
The investment into Wrexham AFC is facilitated through Red Dragon Ventures LLC, a joint venture between the Allyn family and current Wrexham AFC co-owners, Hollywood stars Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds. The new partnership aims to elevate Wrexham AFC’s presence globally while also supporting initiatives in the local community. In recent weeks, family representatives visited Wrexham, expressing interest in a variety of community projects that align with the club’s values.
Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds, co-chairmen of Wrexham AFC, expressed their excitement in a joint statement: “We are grateful to welcome the Allyn family as they bring a wealth of experience, commitment, and kindness that aligns perfectly with our vision for Wrexham. Their support will be invaluable as we continue to grow.”
Eric Allyn, Chief Investment Officer of the Allyn family’s office, also commented on the venture, noting the alignment of values between Wrexham and his family’s longstanding community initiatives. “Our efforts in Syracuse are similar to the work Rob and Ryan have begun in Wrexham. Red Dragon Ventures will allow us to invest in both a world-class football club and the Wrexham community,” Allyn stated.
Michael Williamson, CEO of Wrexham AFC, also lauded the partnership, seeing it as a vital step in achieving the club’s mission to grow and give back to the local community. “The Allyn family’s investment reinforces our goals for both Wrexham AFC and the broader Wrexham community,” he added.
As the club prepares for its next phase of development, the partnership with the Allyn family is set to play a pivotal role in Wrexham AFC’s journey towards becoming a globally recognized team with deep local roots.
