CAMDEN, N.J.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–March 10, 2006–Campbell Soup Company (NYSE:CPB) today announced it has signed as a sponsor of the Harlem Globetrotters. The partnership builds on Campbell’s commitment to promoting the health benefits of an active lifestyle to its consumers. The three year deal provides Campbell with worldwide exclusive rights as a presenting sponsor of the team. The rights extend across Campbell’s portfolio of products, including “Campbell’s,” “Pepperidge Farm” and various international brands. This year marks the Harlem Globetrotters’ 80th consecutive year on tour and the team will visit 200 North American cities and an additional 100 international cities in 2006.
The Harlem Globetrotters have several programs that Campbell will now participate in that will directly relate to the company’s commitment of promoting active lifestyles. Team members conduct pre-game clinics and summer camps that educate thousands of children on a variety of topics. Additionally, the Globetrotters have a C.H.E.E.R (cooperation, honesty, effort, enthusiasm, and respect/responsibility) for Character program that advocates the benefits of character development in thousands of schools across the country.
“As a company, we are very committed to the health of children and this new relationship will help us highlight the benefits of active play. This partnership also allows us to bring our brands into hundreds of communities to tens of thousands of fans across the world,” said Douglas R. Conant, Campbell President and CEO. “It is an ideal sponsorship that partners two long-standing, iconic American brands that have wide reaching all-family appeal.”
Campbell will promote the Harlem Globetrotters sponsorship in a variety of formats, including print and internet advertising, point-of-sale materials, and national free standing inserts. Additionally, Campbell’s Labels for Education(TM) program will fully integrate the Globetrotters into its 2006-2007 school year campaign. The team will be featured in the program’s catalog, newsletters, website and Campbell will collaborate with the team on their grassroots ambassador program.
“Campbell’s Soup and the Harlem Globetrotters are two Brands that have played a part in the lives of nearly every American and millions of others around the globe,” said Harlem Globetrotters’ Chairman & CEO, Mannie Jackson. “Organizations succeed by aligning themselves with those who share their goals of leadership, innovation and passion for execution. The Globetrotters will continue to accomplish their goals alongside Campbell’s and I look forward to a long relationship.”
Campbell’s logo and advertising will appear in the Harlem Globetrotters’ television and print advertising that will be used to promote the team’s current 2006 North American Tour. The team will also incorporate a Campbell themed promotion into all Tour games and include Campbell’s advertising in the Globetrotters annual program. The Harlem Globetrotters’ website will also link to Campbell’s website for the duration of the agreement.
Celebrating their 80th Anniversary in 2006, the Harlem Globetrotters have played in 118 countries and before 123 million fans worldwide. In 2002, the organization was only the fifth team to be inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame; followed by an induction into the Black Sports and Entertainment Hall of Fame and the World Sports Humanitarian Hall of Fame. They have also been recognized as the most popular sports team by the 2002, 2000 and 1999 Q Ratings. For the latest news and information about the Harlem Globetrotters and to purchase team merchandise, visit the team’s official Web site: www.harlemglobetrotters.com.
Campbell Soup Company is a global manufacturer and marketer of high quality simple meals, including soup, baked snacks, vegetable-based beverages, and premium chocolate products, with annual revenues in excess of $7.5 billion.
Founded in 1869, the company has a portfolio of more than 20 market-leading brands, including “Campbell’s,” “Pepperidge Farm,” “Arnott’s,” “V8,” and “Godiva.” For more information on the company, visit Campbell’s website at www.campbellsoupcompany.com.
MULTIMEDIA AVAILABLE: https://www.businesswire.com/cgi-bin/mmg.cgi?eid=5099988 CONTACT: Campbell Soup Company Beth Jolly, 856-968-4301 or Harlem Globetrotters Brett Meister, 602-258-0000 SOURCE: Campbell Soup Company
