BARCELONA: FC Barcelona Femini or the women’s team of the club announced on Friday that American conglomerate Stanley Black & Decker will be its first ever jersey partner as their deal commences from the 2018-19 season.
Stanley, the world’s second-largest commercial electronic security company was represented alongside the club as its new branded jersey was unveiled in Los Angeles. The firm has been a Global Partner of the men’s team since the 2014/15 season, activating that partnership across 60+ countries with digital, marketing and merchandising rights, and access to once-in-a-lifetime Barca experiences.
The women’s team has joined the male counterparts for the first time in the club’s illustrious football history for a pre-season tour to the USA. As a result, the move has tremendous strategic significance as the country is seen as a potential growth market for the game.
This partnership also recognizes the growth and value of women’s soccer and female sports fans. Women are increasingly engaging around sports on social media. A recent study from Adweek shows women account for 30% of all sports-focused social engagement in the U.S., and soccer is in the top three sports they engage with on these platforms.
In the 2017-18 season, Barca announced Stanley as an official partner of the club’s Women’s team. The deal provided the firm with exclusive access to the team, and the brand collaborated with Barca to create a compelling digital content series allowing fans of the women’s team to get closer to the sport and players. This expanded partnership will also provide them increased access via meet and greet opportunities and in-game hospitality.
“Stanley is a company that shares our commitment to supporting women and women’s sports around the world. The expansion of its pledge to our Women’s team is historic because it’s the first time that it has had its own exclusive sponsor, and I am sure this will benefit women’s sports worldwide. Together, we are making positive changes that will help to break down the barriers surrounding women’s sports. There is still a long way to go and Stanley is the right partner to join us on that journey.” FC Barcelona President, Josep Maria Bartomeu said on the deal.
“We are thrilled to be the first-ever shirt sponsor for the FC Barcelona Women’s team and expand our relationship with one of the most well-respected and followed sports organizations in the world. This is an historic and unique opportunity that aligns with our efforts to build a more inclusive and diverse organization and empower women worldwide.” Stanley Black & Decker President and CEO, Jim Loree signed off.
