FORBES' Darren Heitner reported golfer Billy Horschel has "signed an agreement to become brand ambassador" of Connecticut-based Arccos Golf. The company "provides a GPS stat tracking platform allowing golfers to better evaluate their game." Horschel will be "prominently featured in Arccos’ marketing initiatives, which includes point of sale materials and commercials that will air on Golf Channel" (FORBES.com, 1/6).
RUNNIN' DOWN A DREAM: In Boston, John Chesto noted New Balance and Saucony are the "two competitors to emerge so far" to mass produce running shoes for the military. Pentagon officials conceded in April that Army recruits’ running shoes "should be made domestically." The Pentagon’s decision "could translate into hundreds of new jobs at New Balance, Saucony, and their suppliers." New Balance Chair Jim Davis "makes domestic manufacturing a top priority" (BOSTON GLOBE, 1/6).
LIGHTS, CAM-ERA, ACTION: Dannon Oikos Senior Dir of PR Michael Neuwirth said that with the company becoming the NFL’s official yogurt, the company chose Panthers QB Cam Newton as an endorser because it "wanted a 'franchise quarterback' to spearhead its marketing efforts." Neuwirth: "Cam was the top of our list, and we were thrilled that he was available and interested." The company's previous spokesperson was actor John Stamos, who "was seen as more appealing to women" (CHARLOTTE OBSERVER, 1/6).
NON-HOSTILE TAKEOVER: ADWEEK's Michelle Castillo noted in order to "meet the growing business-side demand for mobile advertising," Sporting News Media is "revamping its offerings to allow for a cross-platform experience." The publisher's homepage takeovers now "appear on its mobile sites as well." Microsoft was the "first brand to utilize the dynamic offering." In addition to ads surrounding editorial, Sporting News is "pitching mobile-friendly video including geo-targeted game highlights" from MLB and the NFL (ADWEEK.com, 1/5).
