The NFL appointed IMG as its exclusive licensing representative across select int'l markets in Europe and Asia. The multi-year deal will see the NFL expand its brand presence internationally through new licensed consumer product initiatives. IMG will target a range of distribution channels and price points, including local men’s, women’s and children’s fan apparel, accessories, home décor, fast fashion collaborations and food and beverage. Bruno Maglione, president of IMG’s worldwide licensing division, added, "Football is America’s most distinctive and unique sport export. The fans are already there, and now is the time to expand the breadth and accessibility of the NFL’s consumer product offering" (IMG).
N.Y.-based marketing agency Fast Traffic, which was founded by former NHL and NFL event exec Frank Supovitz, announced the launch of Fast Traffic Australia. It is based in Sydney and led by event management exec Danielle Heptonstall, who directed the National Rugby League's event business from '99-16. Heptonstall and Supovitz first worked together on a 360-degree evaluation of the NRL's Grand Final Week, leading to the development of NRL Nation, the league's first major fan festival (Fast Traffic).
Betting firm SportPesa on Monday "took issue" with Kenya Sports Cabinet Secretary Hassan Wario for what the firm termed "a reckless and irresponsible statement from him" daring it to withdraw its sports sponsorships. SportPesa Sponsorship Manager Yvonne Namai said that Wario "had gone too far" in directing SportPesa to go through his ministry while penning sponsorships (THE NATION, 4/3).
