Budweiser deal renewed
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Budweiser deal renewed
Budweiser and Manchester United have renewed their partnership, extending the beer brand's proud sponsorship of the English and European champions until at least the end of the 2009/2010 season.
Budweiser’s presence at Old Trafford includes exclusive pouring rights at concessions and digital on-field signage displayed in both English and Mandarin, which is seen by United’s massive Chinese fan base.
“Manchester United represents the pinnacle of football and the club’s popularity, like Budweiser, spans the globe,” said Tony Ponturo, vice president, global media and sports marketing, Anheuser-Busch, Inc.“Manchester United and Budweiser are a perfect match, both having strong, storied heritages and a commitment to being the best. As Budweiser continues to expand internationally, our connection with Manchester United helps create awareness and excitement for the brand around the world.”
Local activation of the partnership helps reach adult consumers far beyond the 76,000 people who pack Old Trafford for every match. The sponsorship grants Budweiser rights to use United's marks and player images in advertising, point-of-sale materials and packaging in key markets in Europe, Asia-Pacific, Africa, North and South America.
United chief executive David Gill said, “Budweiser is dedicated to football and has been a valuable partner to Manchester United."
“Budweiser’s use of United for marketing activities has brought loyal followers closer than ever to the Club. The Club and, most importantly, our fans are pleased to have Budweiser’s support.”
The sponsorship also provides Budweiser with hospitality packages and match tickets for promotional activities, which the brand uses to offer customers and consumers once-in-a-lifetime experiences at the Theatre of Dreams.
Throughout the 2008/2009 season, Budweiser will launch promotions in the UK, Mexico, Argentina and Vietnam for fans to win trips to United matches.
In 2008, Old Trafford once again played host to the international finals of the Budweiser Cup, a 6-on-6 football tournament comprised of recreational teams from 16 countries. Players qualified through local tournaments throughout Europe and as far away as India, Paraguay, South Korea and South Africa.
In addition to competing on the pitch, Budweiser’s guests enjoyed a dinner with United legends, a tour of Old Trafford, access to training facilities and tickets to a first-team match.
Budweiser has been a proud sponsor of Manchester United since 2002. For more information about the beer brand, visit www.anheuser-busch.com.