Kingstone Press Cider are new Championships sponsor
The RFL has announced that Kingstone Press Cider will become the official title sponsor of the Championship and Championship One competitions for the next two seasons.
The 2013 Kingstone Press Championships kicked off last weekend and will climax in the all-action Finals Day on Sunday September 29.
Kingstone Press Cider is the major brand of Aston Manor Cider, the second largest cider maker in the UK, and will also be an official partner of the England Rugby League team.
The partnership will see the popular cider brand gain exposure via in-stadia perimeter and programme advertising, a television broadcast presence on Premier Sports and a high profile on the Kingstone Press Championships website during the most geographically diverse Rugby League campaign in history.
Kingstone Press will also invest a significant budget to work with the RFL and Championships clubs to promote their brand, the competitions, the sport and England Rugby League.
With three new clubs – Hemel Stags, Oxford and University of Gloucestershire All Golds – joining the professional ranks for the first time and both Championship and Championship One undergoing a restructuring process for 2013, Kingstone Cider will play an integral role in widening the competition’s exposure in new and existing regions.
RFL Chief Operating Officer Ralph Rimmer said: “We are delighted to welcome Kingstone Press Cider and Aston Manor on board as the official title sponsor of the 2013 Championships.
“This exciting competition continues to grow in stature and with a new geographical footprint for 2013, it’s clear that it has become an even more attractive commercial proposition.
“Every year the Championships deliver some of the most enthralling and enjoyable action in British sport, with the competition’s Grand Finals day a true highlight in the Rugby League calendar, and I am sure fans can expect even more entertainment with the Kingstone Press Championships.”
Aston Manor Cider Managing Director Gordon Johncox said: “We are excited to have joined the Rugby League family and eager to work with the RFL as they look to extend the appeal and audience for such a great sport.
“Kingstone Press is an important brand for Aston Manor, and a quality product with considerable potential. It is testament to our faith in the brand and what can be delivered by working with the RFL that we have committed a record level of investment with this announcement.”
Kingstone Press are the latest company to join Rugby League’s expanded partnership and sponsorship portfolio for 2013 following on from Heinz, Foxy Bingo, Rhino Rugby, Marriott Hotels and Tetley’s.
RFL Commercial Director James Mercer said: “Our growing stable of commercial partners testifies to the appeal of Rugby League and it’s well deserved reputation as a sport which consistently delivers added value.
“We are looking forward to working with Kingstone Press to enhance the profile of both brands over the next few years and to announcing more exciting partnerships in the weeks to come.”