The Blue Jays this week announced a three-year deal with Ontario-based Pizza Nova, making the chain an official partner of the team and Rogers Centre beginning with the '14 season. Financial terms were not disclosed, but Blue Jays VP/Corporate Partnerships Mark Ditmars said it was a “significant commitment." Pizza Nova will become the exclusive pizza served at all Rogers Centre events, and the concession stands at the ballpark where pizza is sold will be re-branded under the Pizza Nova name. The Blue Jays for the past two decades had served Pizza Pizza products. Ditmars said the team was drawn to Pizza Nova because it is a family-run business and is “synonymous with quality.” He added, “We were looking for a premium product inside the stadium and to upgrade the fan experience and the food experience here in the stadium.” Ditmars cited an online poll that showed over 70% of fans surveyed believe Pizza Nova is a “superior or better tasting product.” The deal took approximately six weeks to finalize from start to finish. Pizza Nova will receive a full season of signage behind home plate and on the bullpen wall, as well as a significant presence on BlueJays.com. The chain also has the rights to use the Blue Jays logos in its stores and on its advertising. Ditmars said the two sides are “hopeful some players will be used” in promotions, but they are “still finalizing that portion of the agreement.”
