MANCHESTER: Premier League giants Manchester United confirmed on Thursday that American lifestyle brand Kohler will be its official global partner in a multi-year agreement.
As a result, Kohler’s logo will be shown on the sleeve of the jerseys of United’s men’s and women’s teams respectively.
The partnership will also feature joint participation on game day activities, innovative improvements to club facilities, global sustainability and social responsibility projects and other collaborations with United’s fans and Kohler’s clients and associates.
According to SportsPro Media, the deal is worth 20 million pounds ($26.26 million), which makes it a record sleeve sponsorship deal in the Premier League so far.
Kohler and United share some history too, being in existence for over 140 years, which adds more significance to the partnership.
United’s men’s team will be wearing the new jersey for the first time on July 19 when it will take on Club America in Arizona on its pre-season tour of the USA. On the other hand, the club’s women’s team will be playing for the first time in the second-tier championship, after getting an approval for the same by the FA in May.
Manchester United’s Group managing director, Richard Arnold commented on the partnership.
“It is a pleasure to welcome Kohler to the Manchester United family as a principal partner and our first shirt sleeve sponsor for both the men’s and women’s teams. Our shirt is much more than what we wear, it embodies the passion of our fans and their allegiance to the club.”
“Kohler is known around the world not only for its cutting-edge design and luxury products but also a genuine commitment to stewardship and sustainability and is an exciting addition to our family of commercial partners.”
“Our partnership with Manchester United provides new opportunities to showcase the quality of Kohler products and services with passionate fans of the most far-reaching and revered sports team on the planet. We are excited to help build our global brand among people who align themselves and their lifestyles, with leading-edge innovation and a desire to make the world a better place.”, David Kohler, president and CEO of Kohler said.
“An essential component of the relationship is our support of the new professional women’s team, and we look forward to their debut and our ongoing support. Manchester United embodies sustained excellence in everything they do and our shared values are a perfect match as we expand our fast-growing international presence into new regions with purpose and a meaningful presence.”
