An AD AGE editorial, on the "welcome reassessment" made
by footwear companies relying on athletes as endorsers:
"[T]his reexamination of the athlete endorser is an
encouraging trend that could lead to a major shift in the
marketing of athletic footwear. It also sends strong
signals that outrageous behavior will no longer be quietly
tolerated by marketers, and that consumer concerns remain
foremost in marketers' minds" (AD AGE, 1/19)....The AP
reports that it is "not yet clear" if Chris Webber's arrest
on Tuesday has jeopardized his shoe deal with Fila. Fila
spokesperson Meredith Geisler: "We're waiting to get all the
facts from Chris and his representatives before making any
decisions" (AP/N.Y. DAILY NEWS, 1/22)....New Nike VP/Global
Sports Marketing Ian Todd, formerly with IMG, "stresses that
his hiring is not a sign that Nike intends to take on IMG."
Todd: "We have no intention of competing with IMG and in
fact hope to find some creative ways to work together in the
years to come" (OREGONIAN, 1/21)...Avis will become the WTA
Tour's "Primary Rental Car Supplier" in '98, and will supply
tour players and personnel with discounted rates (WTA Tour).
