The Cubs and AEP Energy on Thursday announced a three-year deal to make AEP the official energy partner of the team and Wrigley Field, as well as the official energy supplier at the ballpark. AEP has signage displayed on the left field wall and is sponsoring electronic signage and announcements during each Cubs pitching change (Cubs).
PARTY LIKE A CHAMPION: MARKETING magazine's Gemma Charles noted Bacardi has "unveiled a Facebook competition to promote responsible drinking, offering entrants the chance to attend a luxury party in Mallorca hosted by" tennis player Rafael Nadal. "The Champions' Party" will be hosted by Nadal as part of his role as the brand's global "social responsibility ambassador." Prior to the competition ending Thursday, fans could "enter the 'Mix with Rafa' competition via the 'Champions Drink Responsibly' Facebook page by answering three questions relating to responsible drinking behaviour" (MARKETINGMAGAZINE.co.uk, 4/15).
THE CAR THAT CARES In North Carolina, Paul Fogleman noted thanks to an "increase in its sponsorship support, Kia Motors no longer will be listed as the Greater Hickory Classic's presenting sponsor" at this year's Champions Tour event in Hickory, N.C. Instead, Kia will be "included in the title of the event." The tournament's future has been "in doubt in recent years, with the economic downturn making the search for a coveted title sponsor a difficult one." Kia's commitment "does not rise to the level of title sponsor." But tournament Exec Dir Jim Correll said that the "path has been cleared for the company to take the next step" (HICKORYRECORD.com, 4/16).
