After Panasonic walked away from rugby union, Samsung has scored a try picking up sponsorship of the Wallabies.
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Samsung Australia has just became the Official Partner of the Qantas Wallabies, Test Rugby and Super Rugby Competition.
The rugby union 2012 tests kick off today in Newcastle with the mighty Wallabies playing Scotland.
The long-term partnership between the tech giant and the Wallabies will go through to the end of 2015, and include the Rugby World Cup in the UK.
The partnership includes signage at all matches, hospitality, digital rights and player appearances. The partnership will be supported by an integrated marketing campaign through broadcast activity, as well as social media.
During the past three years, Pana has used rugby union to promote its Viera Plasma TV but as sales slumped the Japanese company has been forced to cut sponsorship in an effort to preserve profits.
Meanwhile Samsung, who are the No. 1 TV vendor in Oz, has moved in an effort to promote their brand at the top end of the market.
“Rugby Union is a premium Australian sport and we’re thrilled to announce this partnership,” said Arno Lenior, Marketing Director – Samsung Australia.
“We’re looking forward to seeing the passion and energy from the avid supporters and being a part of such a beloved Australian sport. One of the key focuses for Samsung this year is intensifying our relationship with the consumer and we see this partnership with the Qantas Wallabies, Test Rugby and Super Rugby Competition as a way to propel this to another level.”
This sponsorship is part of a wider portfolio, as a consumer electronics industry leader, Samsung is currently involved in a number or partnerships.
These include being a Worldwide Olympic Partner for Wireless Communications Equipment, partner of the Australian Olympic Team and most recently engaging swimming sensation and Olympic hopeful, James Magnussen, as a brand ambassador.
“Samsung are a highly recognisable and hugely successful brand across the world and we are very pleased they have decided to support Rugby in Australia,” said ARU Managing Director and CEO, John O’Neill AO.
“This exciting new partnership will see ARU join Samsung’s sponsorship family that includes the International Olympic Committee, Australian Olympic Committee and the Chelsea Football Club all of which are highly respected organisation. We are delighted to have Samsung as part of the Rugby family until at least the end of 2015.”
