In Louisiana, Kris Wartelle noted real-life Arizona-based State Farm agent Pat Minnis has "found a bit of national fame in landing the spot" alongside Packers QB Aaron Rodgers. Minnis said, "In June, someone from State Farm marketing called looking for agents to be in these commercials." He added that it "took a few days to film a series of 10 commercials and at least three hours to shoot the first one." Minnis: "We were there for three day. (Rodgers) was really nice. That's what made it easier, they were really nice to me. They could have been jerks" (Lafayette DAILY ADVERTISER, 9/26).
WHAT'S UP DOC? In Boston, Kara Baskin notes plant-based meal subscription service Purple Carrot has partnered with Gold Medal-winning U.S. gymnast Aly Raisman. Patriots QB Tom Brady also "inked a sponsorship deal with the company" in '17. Six months ago, Raisman "changed her eating habits to focus on plant-based meals." She joined with Purple Carrot to "help spread their message as a spokeswoman." She will also "collaborate with the company’s culinary team on recipes" (BOSTON GLOBE, 9/27).
TARGET AUDIENCE: In Cincinnati, Erin Caproni noted locally-based uniform and business products company Cintas is serving as "co-presenting sponsor" of "Golf Central Live from the Ryder Cup," which is Golf Channel’s news program airing from Le Golf National outside of Paris, along with the net's "live streaming coverage." A Cintas spokesperson said the company signed on because "business decision makers (potential Cintas customers) are strong viewers of golf as are C-suite leaders who help inform decisions." This is the "first time Cintas has participated in a sponsorship of this magnitude" (BIZJOURNALS.com, 9/26).
EQUIPMENT CHANGE: Tennis player Eugenie Bouchard signed a deal with sports equipment manufacturer Yonex earlier in September. Her previous deal with racket supplier Babolat "expired" at the end of '17 after "reportedly going un-renewed." Bouchard currently "occupies the 107 ranking and is coming off a loss in the first round" of the WTA Tashkent Open (MONTREAL GAZETTE, 9/27).
