Mar 06, 2008
OAK BROOK, IL – Long recognized as the celebrity autograph marker
of choice, Sharpie® brand is partnering with one of the world’s most
recognizable celebrities, global sports star David Beckham. Beckham,
whose autograph is among the most sought-after in the world, will become
Sharpie’s global ambassador in a fully integrated global marketing
campaign that rolls out initially in the United States in early March.
Sharpie, a flagship brand of Atlanta-based Newell Rubbermaid, will
leverage Beckham’s status as an international sports star to increase
awareness of Sharpie not only as the preferred autograph marker, but
also its many creative uses.
“Like the Sharpie brand, David embodies individuality and creative
expression,” said Sharpie global business unit president Howard Heckes.
“He is the rare athlete who transcends nationality and sport to command
worldwide attention, making him the perfect ambassador for Sharpie
marker users who are as passionate about the bold mark of a Sharpie as
they are about the colors, variety and almost limitless uses of the
product.”
Heckes says the deal will feature Beckham in a global marketing campaign
in key regions around the world, including North America, Latin America,
Europe and Asia Pacific.
“I have always enjoyed signing autographs for people, especially since I
used to love getting my heroes’ signatures when I was younger,” said
David Beckham. “I love to use Sharpie markers, so it’s a natural choice
for me to partner with them."
Complete details of the Sharpie-Beckham campaign, which will also
include print and online advertising, promotional and in-store support,
will be announced in May.
The Sharpie® brand has a long history of sports sponsorships in the
United States. Among the top-name athletes Sharpie has previously
partnered with are NASCAR’s Dale Earnhardt Jr., pro football wide
receiver Terrell Owens, pro football hall of famers Steve Young and
Howie Long, and legendary golfers Arnold Palmer and Gary Player. Many
athletes use Sharpie markers to sign autographs because they leave a
bold, permanent mark.
About Sharpie®
For more than 40 years, Sharpie has been the popular brand of permanent
marker associated with the autograph experience. Newell Rubbermaid
Office Products Group, maker of Sharpie® markers, is a worldwide leader
in the manufacturing and marketing of writing instruments, art products
and office organization and technology products, including such well
known brands as Paper Mate®, Sharpie®, DYMO® Parker®, Waterman®, EXPO®,
uni-ball®, and Rolodex®, among others. Visit Sharpie.com
for more information.