Co-op Live is set to open a new café and bar, called Canalside, on 15 September 2025.
By day, Canalside, situated on the arena’s south terrace, will operate as a café serving fresh coffee and locally sourced food, as well as offering co-working spaces, free parking on non-event days and free Wi-Fi.
By night, the space will transform into a bar exclusively for ticket-holders entering Co-op Live.
Beyond food and drink, the 4000 sq ft venue will be available for private bookings, creative workshops, and corporate gatherings, supporting community uses as well as event support.
The two-storey building has indoor and outdoor seating (including part-covered terraces), full accessibility with lifts and ramps, and is dog-friendly. With capacity for around 500 guests, it will also host a merchandise shop on event days.
With a nod to sustainability, the building used upcycled one-use shipping containers sourced locally, and reclaimed timber and metal, with recycled plastics used in the decking.
Guy Dunstan, Senior Vice President and General Manager at Co-op Live, said: “The opening of Canalside marks the next chapter in the growth of the Etihad Campus. We are proud to create a space that blends community, creativity and connection – and adds something new to Manchester’s vibrant social scene, while also continuing to enhance the experience for our ticket holders.”
Roel de Vries, Group Chief Operating Officer for City Football Group, added: “Canalside is the latest addition to the arena and the Etihad Campus and as joint venture partners in Co-op Live we’re delighted to see the opening of a space that local residents and visitors can enjoy during the week. From the space you get fantastic views across to the £300 million Etihad Stadium development, which will be completed next year. We’re excited about this next evolution of the campus and look forward to welcoming people 365-days a year.”
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