Smart new sponsorship deal for AVP

[volleyshots]

www.sportspromedia.com/news/smart_new_sponsorship_deal_for_avp/

04 June 2014 | Posted in Sponsorship, Volleyball, North America | By Michael Long

Smart new sponsorship deal for AVP

The US makers of the Smart car have sealed a deal with the Association of Volleyball Professionals (AVP) to sponsor the 2014 AVP Tour pro beach volleyball series.

As part of the agreement, Smart USA becomes the official automotive partner of the tour’s seven tournaments this season. The brand, part of the Mercedes-Benz USA portfolio, will also title sponsor two events in Southern California – the Manhattan Beach Open in August and the Championships at Huntington Beach in September.

At each event, Smart will have branding on signage on the stadium court and in surrounding areas, whilst the company will have advertising spots in broadcasts on CBS Sports Network and online.

Additionally, Smart cars will be used as player boxes during stadium court matches and fans will be able to take part in promotional giveaways and other activities.

Smart previously sponsored the season-ending event in Huntington Beach last year. Its new deal includes an option to extend for 2015 and 2016.

“Smart USA is excited to extend its commitment with the AVP for the 2014 season,” said Stephanie Zimmer, the manager of brand experience marketing for Mercedes-Benz USA.

“For many years, smart has supported beach volleyball around the world, and we’re thrilled to help the sport thrive right here in the US.”

[tinman2]

Not sure why they waited until after the first event to make this announcement.... their name was on a signage all around the tournament.

[FOBRA]

It was a little weird seeing the players get in a SmartCar during timeouts on the CBSsports broadcast this past weekend but it was pretty effective placement. Nobody seemed to have problems getting in and out of the tiny car (although a couple of players left the doors open)

[geddyleeridesagain]

Seems logical - Smart has been a big sponsor on the World Tour for some time now. Guess their market research leads them to believe beach volleyball demographics are in their wheelhouse for selling cars. A little comical seeing Phil trying to get in and out of one, though.

[guest2]

Cheaper version of the old Wilt VW ad. Good news for the AVP

[volleyballjim]

Well, we can't market bathing suits, ON TO CARS ! LOL.....Glad to hear....Funny the players/mgt don't seem to pay much attention to what players wear. They would seem to want to market their "wardrobe" better and have STUNNING suits, both men and women. Not sure why that isn't lined up (I offer to make a sales call! LOL). I know there WAS a lot "...in the day" ...