Kentucky Pure® Mineral Water – A Proven Winner!

Greenup, Kentucky, U.S.A., 2021-Jan-13 — /EPR RETAIL NEWS/ — 108 Kentucky Derby Winners were raised on water from the same aquifer Kentucky Pure Mineral Water is drawn from.

Giddyup! Enough said!

Look for Kentucky Pure Mineral Water on store shelves soon!

Media contact:

River Rock Water LLC
16387 State Route 7
Greenup Ky 41144

SOURCE: EPR Network

THIRD BOOK OF VERSE FROM THE PEOPLE’S POET MICK COLLISS

Perth, Australia, 2018-Sep-20 — /EPR Retail News/ — Mick Colliss has delivered his poems all over the world. From Centre Court at Rod Laver Arena, to Olympic athlete functions, to audiences in the United States.

Now the author, poet, guest speaker, commentator and former vice-captain of the Australian Sudoku team has released a new collection of verse – his third.

His poems are dry, funny, occasionally moving and uniquely Australian.

Titled What Rhymes with George? his book contains over 40 different poems written over the past 10 years and covers a range of sports, occasions and anecdotes as well as tributes to individuals including Dennis Commetti, former Wallaby Nathan Sharpe and events like the San Jose copper mine rescue and the devastating Queensland flood.

“In 2003 the West Coast Eagles asked me to write a poem to commemorate Glen Jakovich’s 250th game,” Colliss said. “My first thought was: what rhymes with Jakovich?”, which became the title of my first book. I took it in to Radio 6PR in Perth and gave a copy to the legendary broadcaster, George Grljusich. He looked at the title and answered “Grljusich”.

“I thought of calling this book What Rhymes with Grljusich? in honour of the great man but thought it would be too hard to find on Google, so called it What Rhymes with George? instead.

“It’s much easier to spell.”

Colliss has been writing his unique form of poetry for many years and his work has appeared in The Sydney Morning Herald, The Sunday Times, Australian Rugby News and The West Australian. He has written on request for organisations including the West Coast Eagles, the WA Olympic Committee, the WACA, Western Force, Fremantle Dockers and Ronald McDonald House.

The foreword of What Rhymes with George? has been written by Basil Zempilas, most notably of Channel 7 and Radio 6PR.

Mick’s most recent commissioning was to write a poem for Tennis Australia, which he performed on centre court at Rod Laver Arena – with luminaries such as Martina Navratilova, Billie Jean King, Frank Sedgman and Laver himself standing alongside – during the 2018 Australian Tennis Open.

What Rhymes with George? is available at selected outlets and online at https://www.whatrhymeswithgeorge.com

Colliss is available for all media and interviews. Contact Mick Colliss on 0409 090 290 or by email at mick@mickcolliss.com

JCPenney launches exclusive new brand inspired by young women who promote a positive body image — Obsess

JCPenney launches exclusive new brand inspired by young women who promote a positive body image — Obsess

 

Olympic gold medalist Laurie Hernandez inspires first Obsess capsule collection for Gen Z girls

PLANO, Texas, 2018-Feb-23 — /EPR Retail News/ — JCPenney (NYSE: JCP) is taking a cue from the digitally-connected, social media-inspired tween generation and launching an exclusive new brand, Obsess, that features rotating capsules inspired by influential young women who promote a positive body image. The brand’s first collection, influenced by Olympic gold medalist Laurie Hernandez, features trendy tops, rompers, dresses and jeans designed for all body types. Obsess will launch at JCPenney.com on Feb. 26, and will be available in 500 JCPenney stores beginning March 2.

“Obsess is a very unique brand that allows JCPenney to reach a generation of girls who move rapidly from one fashion trend to another, as they discover new style inspiration through daily social media feeds. By working with inspiring young women like Laurie Hernandez for unique capsule collections under the Obsess brand, JCPenney is able to offer tween girls the fresh, new styles they crave,” said James Starke, senior vice president of merchandising for JCPenney. “As we focus on driving business to JCPenney, we have an opportunity with Obsess to attract an entirely new, and often elusive, Generation Z customer. Gen Z holds $44 billion* in buying power and is on track to becoming the largest consumer segment over the next few years, representing significant sales growth potential.”

The introductory capsule collection for Obsess is an authentic representation of Hernandez’s style. Tween girls will find casual, yet feminine, looks designed for every shape and size, including cold shoulder, peplum tops, bright floral prints, embroidered jeans and, one of Hernandez’s favorite pieces, a teal bomber jacket with pink flowers on the sleeves. Hernandez was personally involved in the development of this line and approved each piece of the collection. Obsess is available for girls in sizes 7 to 20, including plus sizes, with sale prices ranging from $21.99 for an embroidered, ruffled top to $34.99 for a floral dress.

“My body changes so much between training, travel and down time. Comfort is so important. I wanted to create casual, cool clothes for girls of all shapes,” said Hernandez. “I am so excited to launch my Obsess capsule at JCPenney and help girls feel confident and comfortable.”

Obsess will be available within the JCPenney girls’ department complementing a comprehensive assortment of popular brands, including The Original Arizona Jean Co.®, by&by, Nike® and Levi’s®. With rotating concepts, customers will find an entirely new Obsess collection this summer with a distinct aesthetic and style for back-to-school. The next Obsess celebrity collaboration will be announced later this year.

For video and images of Obsess apparel and Laurie Hernandez, please visit: https://www.jcpnewsroom.com/news-releases/2018/0221_obsess_featuring_laurie_hernandez.html

*IBM Institute for Business Value, Uniquely Generation Z

About JCPenney: 
J. C. Penney Company, Inc. (NYSE: JCP), one of the nation’s largest apparel and home furnishings retailers, combines an expansive footprint of approximately 875 stores across the United States and Puerto Rico with a powerful e-commerce site, jcp.com, to connect with shoppers how, when and where they prefer to shop. At every customer touchpoint, she will get her Penney’s worth of a broad assortment of products from an extensive portfolio of private, exclusive and national brands. Powering this shopping experience is the customer service and warrior spirit of over 100,000 associates across the globe, all driving toward the Company’s three strategic priorities of strengthening private brands, becoming a world-class omnichannel retailer and increasing revenue per customer. For additional information, please visit jcp.com.

JCPenney Media Relations: 
(972) 431-3400
jcpnews@jcp.com
Follow @jcpnews on Twitter for the latest announcements and Company information.

Source: J. C. Penney Company, Inc.

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StubHub teams up with the NFL Players Association to empower current and former players realize their career goals after life on the field

StubHub teams up with the NFL Players Association to empower current and former players realize their career goals after life on the field

 

StubHub gives current and former NFL players exposure to hands-on business experience through the NFLPA’s Externship and Fellowship programs.

San Jose, CA, 2018-Feb-22 — /EPR Retail News/ — StubHub, the world’s largest event marketplace, teamed up with the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) to empower current and former players to realize their career goals after life on the field. As part of the NFLPA’s Externship program, Quincy Enunwa of the New York Jets, Ben Koyack of the Jacksonville Jaguars, and recent Super Bowl champion Josh Andrews of the Minnesota Vikings (formerly of the Philadelphia Eagles) will participate in a three-week immersive business experience program at StubHub’s headquarters in San Francisco. In addition and separate from the NFLPA’s Externship program, StubHub announced they will pilot a year-long paid Fellowship program with the NFLPA later this year for transitioning NFL players evaluating their next career moves.

“We see both current and former NFL players as extremely valuable individuals”, said Scott Jablonski, StubHub’s General Manager of NFL, NBA & NHL. “They’re one-in-a-million successes who’ve dedicated their lives to achieving their on-the-field goals. StubHub sees this program not only as a valuable investment for our organization; in concert with the NFLPA, we look forward to providing value to the program participants and helping them find their next passions off-the-field.

In its fifth year, the 2018 NFLPA Externship program pairs 41 athletes with 20 organizations that best fit participants’ interests and career development goals. As part of StubHub’s NFLPA Externship program, players will learn what it’s like to work in a fast paced Silicon Valley business environment, tasked with solving a real-life business problem and presenting the solution to StubHub’s leadership upon completion of the program. Each player will be assigned a mentor and learn every aspect of StubHub’s business from technology and finance to sitting in on customer service calls to helping fans find the perfect seats and tickets at StubHub’s Flagship ticket location in New York City.

“I chose StubHub for my NFLPA Externship program because I was looking for a company that blends sports, technology and customer experience,” said Quincy Enunwa, New York Jets Wide Receiver. “It’s important to expand my knowledge and explore opportunities outside of football and I look forward to working with StubHub and the NFLPA to find my career path off the field.”

StubHub’s NFLPA Externship program kicks off Tuesday, February 20th at StubHub’s headquarters in San Francisco and will conclude on March 10th at StubHub’s Flagship ticket location in New York City where players will deliver a seamless fan experience for NCAA’s Big East and ACC Basketball Tournaments. StubHub and the NFLPA’s Fellowship initiative will be a separate program and will kick off later this year.

MEDIA CONTACT:
press@ ebay.com

SOURCE: eBay Inc.

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DICK’S Sporting Goods to bring 210 jobs with the opening of four new stores in February

The retailer will celebrate with four grand opening celebrations

PITTSBURGH, 2018-Feb-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — DICK’S Sporting Goods (NYSE: DKS), the largest U.S.-based, full-line omni-channel sporting goods retailer, will be opening four new DICK’S Sporting Goods stores in February.

DICK’S will now have 721 DICK’S Sporting Goods stores nationwide in 47 states. The new DICK’S locations will bring approximately 210 collective jobs to four communities through the hiring of full-time, part-time and temporary associates for these stores.

“Great sports and outdoor traditions are at the heart of what we do, and we look forward to sharing them with these communities,” said Scott Hudler, Senior Vice President & Chief Marketing Officer, DICK’S Sporting Goods. “Where these sports and outdoor traditions run strong, our stores serve as the heartbeats of the community, bringing people together in a meaningful way that no other retailer can replicate.”

Communities where these new stores are opening can expect to find top-of-the line in-store services and exclusive offerings in apparel, footwear and equipment from the Company’s own private brands, such as CALIA by Carrie Underwood, Field & Stream and Ethos, as well as key, national vendors like Nike, Under Armour and adidas.

Grand Opening events for these newest locations will be held in the following cities:

DICK’S Sporting Goods
City/State Store Location Grand Opening Celebration Dates
Evansville, IN East Lloyd Commons

6200 East Lloyd Expressway

Evansville, IN 47715

February 10 and 11
Baxter, MN Central Lake Crossing

13499 Elmwood Drive

Baxter, MN 56425

February 23 through 25
Santa Maria, CA Enos Ranch

775 E. Betteravia Road

Santa Maria, CA 93454

February 23 through 25
Warwick, RI Rhode Island Mall

650 Bald Hill Road

Warwick, RI 02886

February 24 and 25

 

For each grand opening weekend, customers will receive the chance to win great prizes and meet several special guests, such as Kyle Rudolph** in Baxter, Minn. and Don Sutton** in Santa Maria, Calif.

Visit dicks.com/Evansville, dicks.com/Baxter, dicks.com/SantaMaria and dicks.com/Warwick for full details on the Grand Opening celebrations, including giveaways, promotions, special guests and brand activations.

**WRISTBAND REQUIRED! Wristbands are distributed on a first-come, first served basis beginning at store open on the day of event only. Limited Quantity. Limit one wristband per person. Must be present to receive wristband. Must have a wristband and must be in the Special Appearance line prior to the start of the appearance to receive an autograph. Times and appearances are subject to change without notice. See store for details.

About DICK’S Sporting Goods, Inc.

Founded in 1948, DICK’S Sporting Goods, Inc. is a leading omni-channel sporting goods retailer offering an extensive assortment of authentic, high-quality sports equipment, apparel, footwear and accessories. As of February 3, 2018, the Company operated more than 715 DICK’S Sporting Goods locations across the United States, serving and inspiring athletes and outdoor enthusiasts to achieve their personal best through a blend of dedicated associates, in-store services and unique specialty shop-in-shops dedicated to Team Sports, Athletic Apparel, Golf, Lodge/Outdoor, Fitness and Footwear. Headquartered in Pittsburgh, PA, DICK’S also owns and operates Golf Galaxy and Field & Stream specialty stores, as well as DICK’S Team Sports HQ, an all-in-one youth sports digital platform offering free league management services, mobile apps for scheduling, communications and live scorekeeping, custom uniforms and fan wear and access to donations and sponsorships. DICK’S offers its products through a content-rich eCommerce platform that is integrated with its store network and provides customers with the convenience and expertise of a 24-hour storefront. For more information, visit the Press Room or Investor Relations pages at dicks.com.

CONTACTS: 

DICK’S Sporting Goods
724-273-5552
press@dcsg.com

Source: DICK’S Sporting Goods, Inc.

AND1 marks its 25th anniversary with the signing of NBA legend Kevin Garnett as the creative director and global brand ambassador

New Multi-Year Partnership Kicks-Off Iconic Basketball Brand’s 25th Anniversary Initiatives

NEW YORK, 2018-Feb-09 — /EPR Retail News/ — Sequential Brands Group, Inc. (Nasdaq:SQBG) (“Sequential”) announced today a multi-year partnership with NBA legend Kevin Garnett as the creative director and global brand ambassador for AND1, the iconic basketball brand which began in 1993. This year marks the brand’s 25th anniversary and kicks off with the signing of Garnett — who was one of the brand’s original ambassadors. Garnett resonates with the brand’s streetball roots and the fusion of sports, music, and style.

“For 25 years, AND1 has remained synonymous with the game of basketball and its street-ball lifestyle,” said Eddie Esses, President of Sequential’s Active Division. “As we look to the future, we’re excited to bring Kevin Garnett back to AND1 as the brand’s creative director, global ambassador and strategist, to widen the brand’s distribution channels and to expand into new territories. We’re looking forward to working with Garnett and rolling out the innovative programs we have planned for the year, which will further deepen the brand’s connection to consumers.”

AND1 will launch a capsule collection co-designed by Garnett and an accompanying campaign featuring footwear, apparel, and accessories.

“I’m thrilled to get back to my roots and partner with AND1, one of the best basketball brands in the industry,” said Kevin Garnett. “We have many initiatives underway that we’ll be launching, including my new capsule collection, which I’m particularly excited about.”

As an early AND1 ambassador, Kevin Garnett rose to stardom and changed the face of basketball forever. As one of the NBA’s youngest players, he entered the 1995 NBA draft and became the first NBA player drafted directly out of high school in 20 years. He was selected to 15 All-Star Games, won the NBA MVP award in 2004, and won the NBA Championship in 2008. In 2016, after playing 21 seasons in the NBA, Garnett announced his retirement from professional basketball.  Today, Garnett continues to be actively involved in the NBA as an analyst on “Area 21” on TNT, a studio show in which he hosts guests to discuss games and current events around the league

About AND1
AND1 is a premier basketball footwear and apparel brand that has remained synonymous with the game of basketball and its streetball lifestyle for nearly 25 years. AND1’s footwear, apparel and accessories can be found at select retailers around the world. For more information, visit www.and1.com.

About Sequential Brands Group

Sequential Brands Group, Inc. (Nasdaq:SQBG) owns, promotes, markets, and licenses a portfolio of consumer brands in the active, home and fashion categories. Sequential seeks to ensure that its brands continue to thrive and grow by employing strong brand management, design, and marketing teams. Sequential has licensed and intends to license its brands in a variety of consumer categories to retailers, wholesalers, and distributors in the United States and around the world.

For more information, please visit Sequential’s website at: www.sequentialbrandsgroup.com. To inquire about licensing opportunities, please email: newbusiness@sbg-ny.com.

SOURCE: Sequential Brands Group / GLOBE NEWSWIRE

Media Contact:
Sequential Brands Group
Katherine Nash
knash@sbg-ny.com
(512) 757-2566

H&M to provide outfits for Swedish teams for the Winter Olympics and Paralympics in PyeongChang 2018

H&M to provide outfits for Swedish teams for the Winter Olympics and Paralympics in PyeongChang 2018

 

H&M is proud to announce it will dress the Swedish teams for the Winter Olympics and Paralympics in PyeongChang 2018.

STOCKHOLM, Sweden, 2018-Feb-03 — /EPR Retail News/ — H&M will create outfits for the Opening and Closing Ceremonies. The collection will also include a full and extensive wardrobe for all the Swedish teams to wear in the Olympic village for both training and leisure. The pieces will be developed in collaboration with the Swedish Olympians, who will give their input and test the garments in the collection.

“It is such an honor for H&M to dress both the Swedish Olympians and Paralympians for the upcoming Games in PyeongChang. The designs will bring together sport, functionality and fashion and have Swedish heritage as a proud influence on the collection,”

says Pernilla Wohlfahrt, H&M’s Design Director.

The collaboration between H&M and the Swedish Olympic Committee started in 2013. Since then H&M has created the collections for the games in Sochi 2014 as well as the games in Rio 2016. H&M has also in-between these games created collections for six youth games.

“PyeongChang 2018 marks the third time H&M will dress Team Sweden. H&M brings fashion to the Olympics in a completely new manner. We are looking forward to getting dressed up in their new designs in February,” says Anna Lundin, Marketing and Communication Executive at the Swedish Olympic Committee.

“Being part of a big nations team, when all sports come together and to be representing your country; that´s what makes the Olympic Games special. The clothes are important for building that team spirit and H&M are awesome at creating that feeling. Their designs will make us want to go for gold. The Swedish team will for sure wear the clothing with pride,” says Henrik Harlaut, Swedish Olympic Team freestyle skiing, ski slopestyle.

Contact:

Head of Media Relations
Katarina Kempe
+46 8 5780 85 54

Source: H&M

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JACK & JONES sponsors Haas F1 Team in the FIA Formula One World Championship

JACK & JONES sponsors Haas F1 Team in the FIA Formula One World Championship

 

JACK & JONES announces a new partnership with the only American team competing in the FIA Formula One World Championship.

BRANDE, Denmark, 2018-Feb-03 — /EPR Retail News/ — During the 2018 season, JACK & JONES will be featured on Haas F1 Team’s racecars and team personnel as the two brands join forces on several initiatives throughout the season. With this partnership, JACK & JONES aims to demonstrate its denim superiority together with Haas F1 Team.

At the track, JACK & JONES will appear on the back of the rear wing of Haas F1 Team’s racecars and on the drivers Romain Grosjean and Kevin Magnussen.

JACK & JONES is not new to Formula One. The brand’s longstanding commitment to current Haas F1 team driver Magnussen and former team sponsorships attest to that. The partnership with Haas F1 Team is a natural continuation of a strong company history within motorsports and Formula One in particular. Henning Nielsen, Head of E-Commerce & Marketing, JACK & JONES, explains:

“The dedication and professionalism it takes to be in Formula One aligns with the values we apply in our everyday approach to denim and menswear. We strive to be the best, just like Haas F1 Team. That’s why we have supported Kevin Magnussen throughout his career and why we have decided to join Haas F1 Team this season.”

Denim is the backbone of JACK & JONES, created with meticulous craftsmanship and preparation. One single pair of JACK & JONES jeans goes through 50 pairs of hands before it reaches the end consumer in the store.

“At JACK & JONES, we’re as dedicated to denim as a Formula One driver is to their racing, and that’s why our new partnership with Haas F1 Team makes so much sense for our brand,” Henning Nielsen elaborates; “Just as Haas F1 Team pushes its cars, drivers and crewmen to extract maximum performance, we do the same with our denim to ensure quality and comfort.”

During the 2018 season JACK & JONES and Haas F1 Team will set up several creative initiatives that explore the similarities between the two industries. Both brands promise to push the boundaries within both Formula One and Denim.

Guenther Steiner, team principal, Haas F1 Team, is pleased with the sponsorship;

“We’re very proud to announce our new partnership with JACK & JONES. It’s a brand built on hard work and attention to detail that has grown very quickly and delivers a quality product. While we are still relatively new in Formula One, our objectives and work ethics are very similar to JACK & JONES. The recognition JACK & JONES has in its marketplace is what we strive for in Formula One.”

For further information, please contact:
Malene Louise Lehmann Jensen
Public Relations, JACK & JONES
+45 5215 4875
malene.jensen@bestseller.com

BESTSELLER COMMUNICATION
+45 99 42 16 62
communications@bestseller.com

Source: BestSeller

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U.S. Bank and Diebold Nixdorf to enable Super Bowl to experience the future possibilities of connected commerce

Diebold Nixdorf contributes collaborative, innovative banking technology concepts at The U.S. Bank Possibilities Lounge in Minneapolis

MINNEAPOLIS, 2018-Feb-03 — /EPR Retail News/ — Diebold Nixdorf (NYSE: DBD), a world leader in driving connected commerce, has partnered with U.S. Bank to showcase the future of banking at the nation’s largest sporting event from January 31 to February 4. During a fan festival open to the public, Super Bowl LIVE will host the U.S. Bank Possibilities Lounge in downtown Minneapolis, which will include Diebold Nixdorf’s Essence concept, in addition to an e-commerce locker solution, U.S. Bank and Diebold Nixdorf will enable fans to experience the future possibilities of connected commerce through virtual payments demonstrations using contactless transactions and virtual currency.

At the U.S. Bank Possibilities Lounge, fans will interact with Essence, Diebold Nixdorf’s streamlined, self-service touchpoint concept that transforms everyday transactions into modern encounters. Capturing the look and feel of the ATM experience of the future, and with a striking, modern appearance, Diebold Nixdorf’s Essence concept bridges the physical and digital worlds of cash and consumer transactions.

Fans will also be able to experience Diebold Nixdorf’s e-commerce locker concept, which will feature an opportunity to receive a limited, exclusive gift centered around the big game. Driven by mobile, influenced by data and embedded with security, Diebold Nixdorf’s e-commerce locker concept connects industry trends to create tailored consumer experiences across retail and banking. By scanning their wearable devices to see if they are a recipient, the guest will receive a congratulatory notification indicating in which locker they can pick up their item. The locker approach seamlessly merges online, mobile and store through a ‘click-and-collect’ model that is quick and convenient for consumers.

In the U.S. Bank Possibilities Lounge, fans will also view a video wall of rotating content with fun facts on spending around the big game. In addition to Diebold Nixdorf, U.S. Bank has partnered with Visa® and Zelle for the event.

“Having the Big Game in our headquarters market in Minneapolis is truly a unique opportunity for us to showcase our community,” said Dominic Venturo, chief innovation officer for U.S. Bank. “We are particularly excited about the U.S. Bank Possibilities Lounge in partnership with VISA and Diebold Nixdorf as it will be a fun and interactive way for fans to engage in the future of payments. We believe fans will find this virtual contactless payments journey a truly fascinating experience.”

“We are thrilled to share our innovations centered on the future of self-service around the big game. Sporting events are one of the many opportunities the banking and retail industry have to provide a more dynamic and convenient customer experience,” said Richard Harris, vice president, design and concept development, Diebold Nixdorf. “Our collaborative partnership with U.S. Bank is truly bringing the future of connected commerce to Super Bowl LIVE. Through our presence at the U.S. Bank Possibilities Lounge, guests will be able to experience firsthand the innovative products that will soon become everyday reality.”

U.S. Bank will take over McCormick & Schmick’s restaurant on the corner of Ninth Street and Nicollet Mallfor the U.S. Bank Possibilities Lounge as a part of Super Bowl LIVE. The lounge will be free to the public from January 31 to February 4.

About U.S. Bank

U.S. Bancorp, with 73,000 employees and $462 billion in assets as of December 31, 2017, is the parent company of U.S. Bank, the fifth-largest bank in the United States. The Minneapolis-based bank blends its branch and ATM network with mobile and online tools that allow customers to bank how, when and where they prefer. U.S. Bank is committed to serving its millions of retail, small business, wealth management, payment, wholesale and securities services customers across the country and around the world as a trusted financial partner, a commitment recognized by the Ethisphere Institute naming the bank a 2017 World’s Most Ethical Company. Visit U.S. Bank online or follow on social media to stay up to date with company news.

About Diebold Nixdorf

Diebold Nixdorf, Incorporated (NYSE: DBD) is a world leader in enabling connected commerce for millions of consumers each day across the financial and retail industries. Its software-defined solutions bridge the physical and digital worlds of cash and consumer transactions conveniently, securely and efficiently. As an innovation partner for nearly all of the world’s top 100 financial institutions and a majority of the top 25 global retailers, Diebold Nixdorf delivers unparalleled services and technology that are essential to evolve in an ‘always on’ and changing consumer landscape.

Diebold Nixdorf has a presence in more than 130 countries with approximately 24,000 employees worldwide. The organization maintains corporate offices in North Canton, Ohio, USA and Paderborn, Germany. Shares are traded on the New York and Frankfurt Stock Exchanges under the symbol ‘DBD’. Visit www.DieboldNixdorf.com for more information.

Media Relations:

Mike Jacobsen
APR
+1-330-490-3796
michael.jacobsen@dieboldnixdorf.com

Investor Relations:
Steve Virostek
+1-330-490-6319
steve.virostek@dieboldnixdorf.com

SOURCE: Diebold Nixdorf

Dunkin’ Donuts helps football fans get ready for the game day with the RoaDD to 52 Sweepstakes

Dunkin’ Donuts helps football fans get ready for the game day with the RoaDD to 52 Sweepstakes

 

Fifty-Two Winners will Score Big with 52 Weeks of Free Coffee

CANTON, MA, 2018-Feb-01 — /EPR Retail News/ — Dunkin’ Donuts, the official coffee, breakfast sandwich, donut and hot chocolate of both the New England Patriots and the Philadelphia Eagles, is helping football fans get ready for Sunday with the RoaDD to 52 Sweepstakes. Beginning today, January 31 through Sunday, February 4, fans can enter the RoaDD to 52 Sweepstakes by uploading a photo to Twitter demonstrating their Patriots or Eagles pride and showing how they are gearing up for Sunday’s game using #RoaDDto52 and #Sweepstakes. Fifty-two lucky winners will score big with 52 weeks’ worth of Dunkin’ Donuts coffee to keep them running after game day and through 2018. No purchase necessary, 18+, US residents only. Ends 2/4/18. For official rules, please visit DDSweeps.com.

“Whether they are rooting for the New England Patriots or the Philadelphia Eagles on Sunday, we know our fans have a lot of team spirit,” said Tom Manchester, Vice President of Field Marketing at Dunkin’ Brands. “With our RoaDD to 52 Sweepstakes, we are looking forward to seeing how Dunkin’ Donuts fits into fans’ game-day superstitions, rituals and watch parties and are excited to award 52 fans with 52 weeks’ worth of Dunkin’ coffee.”

No matter what game day conditions are around the country, fans can stay energized with Dunkin’ Donuts’ lineup of hot or iced coffees, lattes, macchiatos and Frozen Dunkin’ Coffee. This winter, Dunkin’ Donuts also has two new seasonal flavors: Buttery Toffee Nut, which offers the taste of buttery toffee with toasty nut flavor and Winter White Chocolate, which combines creamy white chocolate and subtle vanilla flavors.

To learn more about Dunkin’ Donuts, visit www.DunkinDonuts.com, or subscribe to the Dunkin’ Donuts blog to receive notifications at https://news.dunkindonuts.com/blog.

About Dunkin’ Donuts

Founded in 1950, Dunkin’ Donuts is America’s favorite all-day, everyday stop for coffee and baked goods. Dunkin’ Donuts is a market leader in the hot regular/decaf/flavored coffee, iced coffee, donut, bagel and muffin categories. Dunkin’ Donuts has earned a No. 1 ranking for customer loyalty in the coffee category by Brand Keys for 11 years running. The company has more than 12,400 restaurants in 46 countries worldwide. Based in Canton, Mass., Dunkin’ Donuts is part of the Dunkin’ Brands Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: DNKN) family of companies. For more information, visit www.DunkinDonuts.com.

Media Contact:
Lindsay Cronin
Dunkin’ Brands
781-737-5200
Lindsay.Cronin@dunkinbrands.com

Source: Dunkin’ Donuts

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Forever 21 launches its F21 Active Monochrome Collection

LOS ANGELES, CA, 2018-Jan-24 — /EPR Retail News/ — Forever 21, one of the most recognized and largest independent fashion retailers in the world, debuts its F21 Active Monochrome Collection.

The active collection explores a multi-faceted approach to sports-influenced clothing by offering endless options for the woman who partakes in low, medium and high-performance activities. From yoga to cycling and running, the collection covers all the needs for those  looking to take on the great outdoors. The collection offers on-trend details from mesh inserts, metallic, pastels and modernized prints in an assortment of sports bras, yoga pants, running shorts and layering pieces including tops, jackets and much more.

As activewear has emerged as an everyday wear trend, the F21 Activewear Monochrome line hosts pieces that are extremely unique in both print and design making it easier for women to blend fitness and functionality into their daily routines. Items from the stylish and practical line range in price from $7.90 – $27.90.

Forever 21 Activewear Collection launches in stores globally and on Forever21.com beginning January 2, 2018.

ABOUT FOREVER 21
Forever 21, Inc., headquartered in Los Angeles, California, is a fashion retailer of women’s, men’s and kids clothing and accessories and is known for offering the hottest, most current fashion trends at a great value to consumers. This model operates by keeping the store exciting with new merchandise brought in daily. Founded in 1984, Forever 21 operates more than 815 stores in 57 countries with retailers in the United States, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Israel, Japan, Korea, Latin America, Mexico, Philippines and United Kingdom. For more information please visit: www.newsroom.forever21.com

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Forever 21 Public Relations
press@forever21.com

Source: Forever 21, Inc.

Forever 21 collaborates with Honda on an exclusive capsule collection of vintage-inspired racing gear

LOS ANGELES, 2018-Jan-24 — /EPR Retail News/ — Forever 21, one of the most recognized and largest independent fashion retailers in the world, announces their exclusive collaboration with Honda on an exclusive capsule collection of vintage-inspired racing gear. Honda’s brand management agency, Earthbound—using its expertise in uniting brands—helped make the concept a reality.

To celebrate the launch of this exclusive capsule collection, Forever 21 has partnered with Honda to host a contest in which one lucky individual will win a CRF250L Honda motorcycle. For more information on how to enter the contest, please visit: http://bit.ly/2rczHNY

The F21xHonda racing capsule collection consists of iconic Honda designs from the early 1980’s and action sportswear of the 1990’s. Pairing nostalgic Honda racing iconography with updated silhouettes and fabrics to create a modern yet timeless aesthetic, the latest collection includes a variety of men’s and women’s apparel. The women’s collection offers vintage inspired styles from long and short sleeved crop-tops, long sleeve t-shirts and skirts, including items in the Plus size range. The men’s collection features street-wear ready pieces including t-shirts, pull-over sweaters and racing jackets.

“We are so excited to announce our partnership with Honda racing for this 80s & 90s inspired collection.  We are always looking for new & unexpected partnerships—this collaboration with Honda racing is especially relevant now with the popularity of racing & motorsport designs,” says Linda Chang, VP of Marketing for Forever 21. “We hope that fans of both Honda racing and our customers will celebrate with us through this collection.”

“Collaborating with a brand like Forever 21 allows us to introduce Honda motorcycles to a completely new audience,” Mike Snyder, Senior Manager of Honda Powersports Marketing said. “We are very happy with the collection they have developed. It does a great job of blending Honda’s Racing history with Forever 21’s fashion sense.”

The F21 x Honda racing collection will launch in stores throughout North America and on Forever21.com on January 23, 2018.

Official hashtag: #F21xHonda

ABOUT FOREVER 21
Forever 21, Inc., headquartered in Los Angeles, California, is a fashion retailer of women’s, men’s and kids clothing and accessories and is known for offering the hottest, most current fashion trends at a great value to consumers. This model operates by keeping the store exciting with new merchandise brought in daily. Founded in 1984, Forever 21 operates more than 815 stores in 57 countries with retailers in the United States, Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, France, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Israel, Japan, Korea, Latin America, Mexico, Philippines and United Kingdom. For more information please visit: www.newsroom.forever21.com

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Forever 21 Public Relations
press@forever21.com

Source: Forever 21, Inc.

The McDonald’s All American Games unveils official rosters for the 41st annual Boys Game and 17th annual Girls Game

OAK BROOK, Ill., 2018-Jan-18 — /EPR Retail News/ — The McDonald’s All American Games today unveiled the official rosters for the 41st annual Boys Game and 17th annual Girls Game. The nation’s premier high school basketball all-star event will take place March 28 at Atlanta’s Philips Arena. Full team rosters are available at www.mcdaag.com.

The 2018 McDonald’s All American Boys teams feature the country’s top talent hailing from 17 different states. The East Team includes Duke-bound R.J. Barrett (Montverde Academy – Montverde, Fla.) and a pair of undecided highly ranked players, Zion Williamson (Spartanburg Day School – Spartanburg, S.C.), and Romeo Langford (New Albany High School – New Albany, Ind.).

The West Team will be led by Bol Bol (Findlay Prep – Henderson, Nev.), who will attend Oregon in the fall. He will be joined by highly ranked Duke commit, Cameron Reddish (Westtown School – West Chester, Pa.) and Simisola Shittu (Vermont Academy – Saxtons River, Vt.) who plans to suit up for Vanderbilt next season.

Of the 24 boys selected to be McDonald’s All Americans, two sets of current high school teammates will be featured and five have yet to make their college decisions. Of those who have decided, Duke and Kansas have the most commitments with three each, followed by Oregon, North Carolina and Vanderbilt with two each. The Boys Game begins at 7 p.m. EST March 28 and will air live on ESPN.

The 2018 Girls team includes seven players from Texas, the most represented state. The East Team includes Georgia native and Connecticut-bound Olivia Nelson-Ododa (Winder-Barrow High School – Winder, Ga.), highly ranked Shakira Austin (Riverdale Baptist School – Upper Marlboro, Md.), who has committed to Maryland and Izabela Nicoletti (Neuse Christian Academy – Raleigh, N.C.) who will play at Florida State next season.

The West Team will be led by another Connecticut recruit, top-ranked Christyn Williams (Central Arkansas Christian Schools – North Little Rock, Ark.). She will be joined by Texas-bound Charli Collier (Barbers Hill High School – Mont Belvieu, Texas) and Aquira DeCosta (Saint Mary’s High School – Stockton, Calif.) who has committed to play at Baylor.

Of the 24 girls selected to be McDonald’s All Americans, Baylor has the most McDonald’s All American players suiting up next fall with four commits followed by Tennessee with three commits. Like the Boys roster, this year’s Girls roster features two sets of high school teammates that will play against each other. The Girls Game begins at 5 p.m. EST March 28 and will air live on ESPN2.

“The 48 players selected for the 2018 McDonald’s All American Games represent the future of basketball,” said Morgan Wootten, Hall-of-Fame basketball coach and McDonald’s All American Games Selection Committee Chairman. “As we leave a great legacy in Chicago, we look forward to hosting the Games in Atlanta and providing the players with the opportunity to show the entire country their tremendous talent.”

This year’s teams were selected from more than 700 nominees by the McDonald’s All American Games selection committee, led by Wootten.

In addition to the 48 players selected, four prep coaches from Alaska, Connecticut and South Dakota were named coaches for the 2018 Games. Dawn Seiler of (Aberdeen Central High School – Aberdeen, S.D.), will lead the Girls East Team, while Jeannie Hebert-Truax of (Wasilla High School – Wasilla, Alaska) will coach the Girls West Team. John Mirabello of (Northwest Catholic High School – West Hartford, Conn.) will lead the Boys East Team and Brad Lauwers of (A.J. Diamond High School – Anchorage, Alaska) will serve as head coach of the Boys West Team.

Since 1978, more than 1,300 players have competed in the McDonald’s All American Games. They form an elite group of some of the top names in basketball history, including Magic Johnson, Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, James Harden, Kyrie Irving, Candace Parker, Maya Moore, Elena Delle Donne and Breanna Stewart. Alumni include current college standouts Trae Young of Oklahoma, Miles Bridges of Michigan State and Katie Lou Samuelson of UConn.

McDonald’s has continued to raise the bar by investing in the future of communities around the globe. We do this by providing programs with one-of-a-kind experience that help shape and develop the skills student athletes need to become the leaders of tomorrow. In addition to the All American Games, McDonald’s provides scholarships, hosts leadership summits and education workshops in the communities it serves and remains committed to continuing to extend service to the world outside of its restaurants.

Tickets for the 2018 McDonald’s All American Games go on sale Feb. 5 at 10 a.m. EST via Ticketmaster or the Philips Arena box office. Ticket prices start as low as $10.

Games week will kick-off on Sunday, March 25 with a free Fan Fest at Atlanta’s Atlantic Station (1380 Atlantic Drive) from 12 – 6 p.m. EST. Attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy a day of live entertainment, basketball themed activities and McDonald’s food.

The POWERADE® Jam Fest – featuring McDonald’s All American Games players in a three-point shootout, dunk contest and shooting competition – will be held Monday, March 26. The competitions will air live at 8 p.m. EST on ESPN2.

For more than 40 years, the McDonald’s All American Games have benefitted Ronald McDonald House Charities through its network of local chapters. At RMHC, programs like the Ronald McDonald House and Ronald McDonald Family Room provide comfort and compassion to families with sick children so they are fully supported and able to be a part of their children’s care. This year’s All American Games will benefit Atlanta Ronald McDonald House Charities which has served more than 50,000 families since 1979. Proceeds will support the operations of Atlanta’s two Ronald McDonald Houses, Ronald McDonald Family Room and Ronald McDonald Care Mobile.

For more information about the McDonald’s All American Games, POWERADE Jam Fest or game week activities in Atlanta, please visit www.mcdaag.com and follow @McDAAG.

Proud sponsors of the 2018 McDonald’s All American Games include adidas, American Family Insurance, Coca-Cola®, Mercedes-Benz, POWERADE® and Sprite®.

@McDAAG
Get in the Game by following the McDonald’s All American Games on Twitter and Instagram. Follow @McDAAG to receive up-to-date information and a behind-the-scenes look at the 2018 Games including; key announcements, local player/coach recognitions, fan giveaways and historical Games facts and figures.

About McDonald’s USA
McDonald’s USA, LLC, serves a variety of menu options made with quality ingredients to more than 25 million customers every day. Nearly 90 percent of McDonald’s 14,000 U.S. restaurants are independently owned and operated by businessmen and women. Customers can now log online for free at approximately 11,500 participating Wi-Fi enabled McDonald’s U.S. restaurants. For more information, visit www.mcdonalds.com, or follow us on Twitter @McDonalds and Facebook www.facebook.com/mcdonalds.

About Ronald McDonald House Charities®
Ronald McDonald House Charities® (RMHC®), is a non-profit, 501 (c) (3) corporation that creates, finds, and supports programs that directly improve the health and well-being of children and their families. Through its global network of nearly 290 Chapters in more than 64 countries and regions, and its three core programs: the Ronald McDonald House®, the Ronald McDonald Family Room® and the Ronald McDonald Care Mobile, RMHC helps families with sick children stay together, and close to the medical care their child needs at leading hospitals worldwide. RMHC programs not only provide access to quality health care, they enable family-centered care ensuring families are fully supported and actively involved in their children’s care. For more information, visit rmhc.org.

© 2018 McDonald’s
All trademarks and/or registered marks are owned by their respective companies

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
Steven Hunter, McDonald’s USA
steven.hunter@us.mcd.com
317-910-2223

Kate Mulcahey, Golin
kmulcahey@golin.com
312-729-4332

SOURCE: McDonald’s/GLOBE NEWSWIRE

H&M launches its latest activewear collection made in sustainable materials inspired by nature and strong women

H&M launches its latest activewear collection made in sustainable materials inspired by nature and strong women

STOCKHOLM, Sweden, 2018-Jan-02 — /EPR Retail News/ — Blending fashionable design with highly functional details, H&M is thrilled to announce that the latest activewear collection is also made in sustainable materials. Inspired by nature and strong women, the collection will be available globally in select stores starting December 28th and online at hm.com January 4th.

Revolving around the theme of “In it for the long run”, the activewear collection includes a versatile range of tights, sports bras, hoodies and tops for training, running and yoga. There is an emphasis on nature and sustainability, through the prints and the colour palette of green tones, black and beige, but also the predominant use of recycled polyester and elastane in each and every piece. The garments have functional details such as being quick-dry and seamless for maximum comfort, plus built-in support and holes for ventilation. Designs are fresh, figure-flattering and fashion-forward with contrast panelling, criss-cross backs and decorative webbing. The result is a truly modern activewear collection that reflects the importance of conscious fashion today.

“By bringing together the functional and feminine, the aim is to give customers a stylish, conscious sports collection. And not just through the fabrics – we utilised a new knitting technique that creates seamless garments while using less yarn or fabric waste. Blending function with sustainable thinking and fashion in this way is the way forward,”

Petra Smeds, Head Designer of sportswear

This collection also characterises H&M’s continued commitment to sustainability and is just one of the several steps H&M is making towards their overall goal of becoming 100% circular. Ultimately, H&M want to create a closed loop for textiles in which unwanted clothes can be reused or recycled into new treasures.

For more images and information about the collection, please visit H&M Image Gallery.

For press enquiries, please contact our press office (manned 24/7)
+46 8 796 53 00
groupmediarelations@hm.com

Majid Al Futtaim held successful inaugural UAE National Ski and Snowboard Championships at Ski Dubai

Majid Al Futtaim held successful inaugural UAE National Ski and Snowboard Championships at Ski Dubai

 

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 2017-Dec-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — The inaugural UAE National Ski and Snowboard Championships at Ski Dubai witnessed extraordinary skiing and snowboarding performances by more than 130 home-grown snow sports athletes. Concluded recently, the first-of-its-kind event was organised by Majid Al Futtaim, the leading shopping mall, communities, retail and leisure pioneer across the Middle East, Africa and Asia, under the patronage of Dubai Police and the Community Sport initiative of H.H Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai – Chairman of the Executive Council – Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council. The championship was held on December 8th and 9th, 2017, and was supported by the UAE National Olympics Committee and UAE Ice Sports Federation

Attended by hundreds of cheering fans, the country’s biggest ever snow sports event opened with an impressive performance by Dubai Police band, which marched from Ski Dubai through to Central galleria and back to Ski Dubai enthralling visitors along the way.

The championship, which was divided into four snow sports disciplines, provided unparalleled thrills for snow sports fans and enthusiasts from the UAE and beyond and marks a crucial step in ensuring the UAE’s membership in the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS).

The  alpine competition on day one was opened by renowned athletes: Gorgio Rocca, winner of 11 World Cup races in Alpine Skiing and four times Olympian, up and coming British snowboarder Sparrow Knox; and 2010 X games big air gold medallist Halldor Helgason. For the second day the freestyle judging panel included 5 international judges headed up by World Cup head Judge Martin Carr. Dedicated to ensuring the championship was held to the highest of global standards, the highly esteemed panel of judges invested all of their efforts to encourage the young participants throughout the event.

There were a total of 30 winners across four disciplines, 18 of whom were UAE nationals, underscoring the growing popularity of snow sports in the Arab world and Ski Dubai’s relentless pursuit to foster and mentor new skiing and snowboarding athletes.

Following world-class display of snow sports skills by participants in Alpine speed disciplines of Slalom Skiing and Giant Slalom, the winners for day-one were announced. Robyn Leslie (GBR) took the top prize in Slalom Skiing Women’s category while Oscar Morgan (AUS) won the Men’s category. Giant Slalom first place was a tie between Robyn Leslie (GBR) and Summer Spendlove (GBR) in the Women’s category, while Oscar Morgan (AUS) swept the top prize in the men category.

The second day of the championship was equally spell binding as the UAE Freestyle Ski and Snowboard Championships in two freestyle disciplines; Slopestyle and Big Air got underway. The day saw performances by a further ten snow sports athletes; Ayshia Al Tamimi (UAE) claimed the gold in Slopestyle Ski women category and Faisal Abdulla (UAE) in the Slopestyle Ski men category, while Saaed Almatrooshi (UAE) swept up the first prize in the Slopestyle Snowboard male category.

Big Air, a more extreme version of Slopestyle where competitors are awarded points based on the Degree of Difficulty of their tricks on a huge jump , was won by Meera Sahoo (UAE), Faisal Abdulla (UAE) and Saaed Almatrooshi (UAE) Freestyle Ski Women category, Freestyle Ski men category and men snowboard category respectively.

Commenting on the competition, Ahmed Galal Ismail – CEO at Majid Al Futtaim Ventures, said: “It is a matter of great pride for Ski Dubai to have been given the opportunity to work with Dubai Police to organise the first-ever UAE National Ski and Snowboard Championships. The championships were a resounding success and this day forward, snow sports in the UAE has entered a new and exciting era of growth and popularity. Having successfully hosted a championship of this scale, I am confident that Ski Dubai will soon become one of the preferred international destinations for snow sports and will host many similar events in the future.

“We are also thankful for the invaluable support provided by Dubai Police, Dubai Sports Council, UAE National Olympics Committee and UAE Ice Sports Federation, which enabled us to organise championships of such stature,” Ahmed Galal Ismail added.

Ski Dubai would like to thank sponsor partners including; ENOC, Aqdar, Sheraton, Empower, Emarat, Emirates NBD, Dutco and Capriole. In addition, Ski Dubai would also like to thank their sponsors including; ZSI Trading, Rossignol and Spyder, as well as and Burton who are proud partners and sponsors of the Ski Dubai Alpine and Freestyle team.

Media Contact:

Carine Arif
Weber Shandwick
04 445 4222
MAFLeisure@webershandwick.com

Source: Majid Al Futtaim

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Rakuten opens its pro sports merchandise store Rakuten SPORTS ZONE featuring premium goods from NBA Legends

Rakuten opens its pro sports merchandise store Rakuten SPORTS ZONE featuring premium goods from NBA Legends

 

Featuring premium goods from NBA Legends

TOKYO, 2017-Dec-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — Rakuten, Inc., a global marketing partner of the National Basketball Association (NBA), today (Dec. 13, 2017) opened its pro sports merchandise store Rakuten SPORTS ZONE to further build excitement around the NBA in Japan. The store is launching with sales of limited-edition items including autographed items from NBA Legends.

In October 2017, Rakuten launched a multiyear partnership with the NBA, making it a global marketing partner of the organization. With this partnership, Rakuten is now operating the “NBA ZONE” in its internet shopping mall Rakuten Ichiba as a special page gathering NBA merchandise from Rakuten Ichiba stores. With the opening of the new Rakuten SPORTS ZONE, offering products that can rarely be obtained in Japan such as premium goods of former NBA stars, we will be able to further expand the product lineup offered in the NBA ZONE.

Offerings include limited-edition autographed memorabilia (with serial number) offered by the Upper Deck Company, and reproductions of the jerseys of 80s and 90s NBA stars offered by the American sports apparel-maker Mitchell & Ness Nostalgia Co. New products will be added going forward.

Rakuten will leverage its diverse range of services to further promote the NBA and basketball in Japan, and contribute to the further development of sports and culture.

Rakuten SPORTS ZONE Overview
Title: Rakuten SPORTS ZONE
Opening Date & Time: 10:00 a.m. Wednesday, December 13, 2017

Products:
Autographed 1997-98 Chicago Bulls Jersey
Autographed “Last Shot” Art Print
Authentic 1984-85 L.A. Lakers Jersey
Authentic 1985-86 Boston Celtics Jersey
Authentic 1985-86 Chicago Bulls Jersey

*Please note that the information contained in press releases is current as of the date of release.

Source: Rakuten, Inc.

###

The first-ever UAE National Ski and Snowboard Championships at Ski Dubai, December 8 and 9, 2017

The first-ever UAE National Ski and Snowboard Championships at Ski Dubai, December 8 and 9, 2017

 

Dubai Police and Ski Dubai to Host First Ever UAE National Ski and Snowboard Championships

Dubai, United Arab Emirates, 2017-Dec-08 — /EPR Retail News/ — Under the patronage of Dubai Police and the Community Sport initiative of H.H Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al-Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai – Chairman of the Executive Council for Dubai Government and Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council, Majid Al Futtaim, the leading shopping mall, communities, retail and leisure pioneer across the Middle East, Africa and Asia, is organising the first-ever UAE National Ski and Snowboard Championships at Ski Dubai. The championships are also supported by the UAE National Olympics Committee and UAE Ice Sports Federation and Dubai Sports Council and will be held on December 8 and 9, 2017.

The National Championships are organised as part of Ski Dubai’s on-going efforts to promote snow sports in the country, and fulfil one of the key requirements laid out by International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) for membership. Once the UAE receives membership to FIS, snow sports athletes from the country will be allowed to compete internationally for the first time.

This is exciting news for snow sports athletes and enthusiasts in the UAE, who will no longer be restricted to local and regional events and can now aspire to make a mark on an international stage. The UAE National Ski and Snowboard Championships herald a new era for snow sports in the country, which continues to go from strength to strength since the inception of Ski Dubai.

The championships, which are divided into four snow sports disciplines, will see more than 200 top athletes from the UAE, many of whom have honed their skills on the slopes of Ski Dubai, battle it out for the title honours. The first day will witness the UAE Alpine Ski Championships with athletes participating in the fiercely competitive Alpine speed disciplines of Slalom Skiing and Giant Slalom. The second day will feature the UAE Freestyle Ski and Snowboard Championships under two freestyle disciplines: Slopestyle and Big Air. The competitions will be adjudicated by a panel of four distinguished international judges, headed up by World Cup judge Martin Carr. Other renowned international guests and judges on the panel include: Gorgio Rocca, winner of 11 World Cup races in Alpine skiing and four times Olympic Champion, Halldór Helgason, winner of 2010 X-Games in Snowboard Big Air discipline and Sparrow Knox, the up and coming British Snowboarder.

Over the past decade, Ski Dubai has been committed to creating and supporting local talent and has helped lead the way in building and growing snow sports in the UAE. From organising regular freestyle nights and races at its state-of-the-art facilities, to mentoring, coaching and encouraging young athletes to develop their skills to an international standard, years of continued work by Ski Dubai and its partners has now come to fruition in the shape of the first-ever UAE National Ski and Snowboard Championships.

Commenting on the championships, Ahmed Galal Ismail – CEO at Majid Al Futtaim Ventures said: “We are proud to host the inaugural UAE National Ski and Snowboard Championships at Ski Dubai. We are committed to fostering snow sports talent in the country and our goal is to make the UAE and Ski Dubai an international destination for the sport. With approximately one million visitors per year, which is on par with the international benchmark for major ski resorts, Ski Dubai is poised to become one of the major global destinations for Ski and Snowboard Championships. It is immensely fulfilling to see world-class athletes, many of whom have learned and refined their craft at Ski Dubai, creating great moments as they take part in this prestigious event.”

Colonel Khaled Ali Shahil, General Director of the Community Happiness Department at Dubai Police added: “We support every activity that is aimed at bettering the lives of citizens and residents of the UAE. The UAE National Ski and Snowboard Championships are opening new avenues to promote snow sports in the country and develop home-grown talent in the field. This will eventually lead to the formation of the UAE National Ski and Snowboarding team, which is a matter of great pride for the nation and will bolster the country’s stature on the international snow sports stage.”

Dubai Police in association with the Dubai Positive Soul initiative and the Dubai Sports Council, along with the UAE Olympics Committee, are providing valuable logistical and strategic support for the first UAE National Ski and Snowboard Championship event. Dubai Police are Ski Dubai’s esteemed partner, and have played an integral part in the pre-planning of the Championships. As part of this they have generated a huge amount of support for this event, engaging a number of sponsors including ENOC, Aqdar, Sheraton, Empower, Emirat, Emirates NBD, Dutco and Capriole. In addition, Ski Dubai would also like to thank their sponsors including; ZSI Trading, Rosinol and Spyder, as well as and Burton who are proud partners and sponsors of the Ski Dubai Alpine and Freestyle team.

Commenting on the championships, HE Saeed Mohammed Hareb, Secretary General of Dubai Sports Council said: “H.H Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai – Chairman of the Executive Council – Chairman of the Dubai Sports Council has launched several initiatives to promote an active lifestyle among the residents of the UAE, and Ski Dubai’s launch of the National Championships is in line with that vision. The UAE National Ski and Snowboard Championships, will boost the awareness of snow sports in the country and attract new people to the sport, whilst globally showcasing the talented athletes to emerge from the UAE.”

Ski Dubai recently announced the launch of its Sponsored Athletes team with an impressive roster of experienced coaches, who will guide the athletes over the coming years. The line-up includes: Mohamed Moulay, a former Moroccan National Ski Team member and experienced race coach, James Machon, a former Great Britain Olympic Freestyle skier and Mike Barker, whose experience includes five years as a coach of the British Children’s team. The entire project is headed up by Chris David, Snow Sports Operations Manager at Ski Dubai. Chris is a former GBR athlete and was Head Freestyle Moguls Ski Coach for Great Britain.

Media Contact:

Carine Arif
Weber Shandwick
04 445 4222
MAFLeisure@webershandwick.com

Source: Majid Al Futtaim

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Visa releases travel and spend data timed with the Final Draw for the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™

Visa, the Official Payment Service Partner of FIFA, releases travel and spend data timed with the Final Draw for the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™

SAN FRANCISCO, 2017-Nov-29 — /EPR Retail News/ — In celebration of the Final Draw for the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™, Visa (NYSE: V), the Official Payment Service Partner of FIFA, released travel and spending data for the 2018 FIFA World Cup™. Throughout official FIFA venues, Visa will enable a cash-free fan experience by implementing point-of-sale terminals that accept a Visa credit or debit card and a range of digital payments, such as those made via phone or watch.

These enhancements ensure official FIFA venues are equipped with the latest in payment innovation and are ready for the increase in expected international visitors to Russia. Based on spending trends and insights from Visa, it is projected that Russia will host an additional 300,000 to 500,000 international visitors1 during the months of June and July 2018, on top of a baseline average of 4.3 million total international visitors2 to Russia during that same time period over the past four years.

Based on historical data1 from the previous four FIFA World Cup™ tournaments, Visa projects foreign visitors to Russia will represent a 6 to 10 percent increase in foreign visitors to the country in June and July 2018. The largest share of non-native travelers to Russia are forecast to come from:

  • Europe (69 percent)
  • Asia Pacific (12 percent)
  • Americas (8 percent)

Based on historical data3 from the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil™, Visa anticipates Russia can expect to see an increase in per traveler spending. On average, visitors attending the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil™ spent 31 percent more3 per card than regular tourists in Brazil. Visa projects this difference was a result of FIFA World Cup™ fans spending:

  • Over 25 percent more at restaurants
  • Over 10 percent more on transportation
  • Close to 10 percent more on lodging

“As the Official Payment Service Partner of FIFA, Visa is excited for fans all over the world to join us in Russia,” said Ekaterina Petelina, country manager, Visa Russia. “From unveiling the latest payment innovations to upgrading payment terminals to allow for contactless cards and digital payments, such as those made via phone or watch, throughout official venues, Visa will continue to elevate the fan experience. Visa provides simple and secure payment options for those in attendance, so they can get back to their seats quickly and focus on the match.”

Global ticket sales for the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™ continue to perform well, as FIFA recently reported4 that:

  • Close to 800,000 tickets have been sold so far to the FIFA World Cup global fan base.
  • Nearly 50 percent of the ticketing demand is coming from the host country, Russia, with Argentina, Australia, Brazil, China, Colombia, Germany, India, Mexico and the United States making up the largest number of international requests.

To ensure fans have a seamless and secure payment experience when attending the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™, Visa developed the following recommended travel tips that fans can take advantage of.

Know Before You Go to Russia

  • Notify your issuing bank or financial institution of anticipated travel plans, including use of Visa debit, credit or prepaid cards abroad to avoid any issues while processing transactions. Issuing banks can also provide information about travel-related benefits for Visa account holders, including opt-in mobile services, such as Mobile Location Confirmation through your bank’s mobile app or Visa’s Travel Authorization Tag.
  • Register for SMS notifications with your specific bank, or the bank’s transaction notification service, to track purchases made on your Visa accounts as you travel.
  • Set up automatic bill pay for any credit cards to give you some peace-of-mind that your account will be current while traveling abroad.
  • Make two copies of important travel documents, namely your passport, in case of emergency. Leave one copy with a friend or relative and carry the other separate from your original documents. You can also take a photo with your cellphone of important documents.

Travel Tips for Fans in Russia

  • When paying by card, pay in “local currency” for a competitive exchange rate.
  • Use a credit or debit card for purchases. Visa offers security, convenience and ease when paying abroad. It is safer than carrying cash.
  • Whenever possible, pay through a chip-activated terminal when using your credit or debit card for enhanced security.
  • Look for the Visa or PLUS logo at any point-of-sale terminal to ensure international payment cards are accepted.

As the Official Payment Service Partner of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™, Visa will be celebrating the spirit of football in Russia and is looking forward to showcasing the future of digital payments with fans from all over the globe. For additional information on Visa’s sponsorship of the 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™, visit www.visa.com.

Methodology

Visa International Travel (VISIT) platform is a proprietary model that combines Visa’s cardholder data with publicly-available cross-border arrival statistics. The database provides a comprehensive view into high-frequency cross-border travel flows, currently encompassing the top 82 origin and destination countries, which collectively account for more than 80 percent of global travel. VISIT combines unique counts of Visa cardholders that register a face-to-face transaction at a merchant outside their home country in a given calendar month with other transaction data such as average spend per cardholder, card usage patterns at lodging merchants and others. Visa uses this data to econometrically model official arrival statistics compiled by various government sources and to generate estimates that fill in the large gaps existing in the cross-border travel data.

About Visa Inc.

Visa Inc. (NYSE: V) is the world’s leader in digital payments. Our mission is to connect the world through the most innovative, reliable and secure payment network – enabling individuals, businesses and economies to thrive. Our advanced global processing network, VisaNet, provides secure and reliable payments around the world, and is capable of handling more than 65,000 transaction messages a second. The company’s relentless focus on innovation is a catalyst for the rapid growth of connected commerce on any device, and a driving force behind the dream of a cashless future for everyone, everywhere. As the world moves from analog to digital, Visa is applying our brand, products, people, network and scale to reshape the future of commerce. For more information, visit usa.visa.com/aboutvisavisacorporate.tumblr.com and @VisaNews.

1 Estimate based on the Visa International Travel (VISIT) platform, 2002-2014.

2 Visa International Travel (VISIT) platform, four-year average, 2014-2017.

3 VisaNet 2014.

4 See FIFA.com/tickets for more information about ticket sales for the 2018 FIFA World Cup™.

Contact:
Sheerin Salimi
shesalim@visa.com

Source: Visa Inc.

Alibaba Cloud as Presenting Partner of the FIFA Club World Cup until 2022

Leon Xie, General Manager, Sports Marketing of Alibaba Group, and Iain Downie, FIFA’s Director Marketing Sales and Strategy, launched the partnership.

Guangzhou, 2017-Nov-24 — /EPR Retail News/ — Alibaba Group and FIFA announced today Alibaba Cloud – the cloud computing arm of Alibaba Group – as Presenting Partner of the FIFA Club World Cup until 2022. The announcement was made on the occasion of the Computing Conference held by Alibaba Group in Guangzhou.

Commenting on the agreement, FIFA’s Director Marketing Sales and Strategy, Iain Downie said: “We are aware of the substantial value that Alibaba Cloud provides to business in terms of technical support and global reaching services. We can only see great potential in this fresh collaboration related to the FIFA Club World Cup.”

Beginning at this year’s edition of the tournament, which will be hosted in the UAE from 6 to 16 December, as the Presenting Partner, Alibaba Cloud will design and provide the MVP (most valuable player) award. In additional celebration of the partnership, the FIFA Club World Cup Winner’s Trophy was exhibited during the announcement and at the Computing Conference.

The FIFA Club World Cup is a FIFA-organised international football tournament, featuring the current champion football clubs from each of the six football confederations, as well as the national league champion from the host country. In previous tournaments some of the biggest footballing stars in the world have participated, including global superstars such as Lionel Messi, Luis Suárez and Cristiano Ronaldo, who had all been named tournament best players in past editions of the tournament.

Simon Hu, Senior Vice President of Alibaba Group and President of Alibaba Cloud said: “As one of the world’s leading cloud computing providers, we are striving to make technology more inclusive to benefit more people’s day-to-day life and well-being. By becoming a major partner of the FIFA Club World Cup, we hope to show how our technology can bring new aspects of fun and enjoyment to fans of sports, including those people who might have had barriers to access or participate before. For Alibaba Cloud, this is the true meaning of inclusive technology.”

Alibaba Cloud’s powerful cloud computing infrastructure has proven its value proposition by supporting massive spikes in traffic and transactions during peak events such as Alibaba Group’s Global Shopping Festival. Within the sports industry, Alibaba Cloud works towards providing cloud computing infrastructure and cloud services to support operation efficiency in a secure manner, including by supporting big data analytics requirements.

About Alibaba Cloud

Established in 2009, Alibaba Cloud (www.alibabacloud.com), the cloud computing arm of Alibaba Group, is among the world’s top 3 IaaS providers according to Gartner, and the largest provider of public cloud services in China, according to IDC. Alibaba Cloud provides a comprehensive suite of cloud computing services to businesses worldwide, including merchants doing business on Alibaba Group marketplaces, start-ups, corporations and government organizations.

SOURCE:  Alibaba Group Holding Limited

Media Contacts

Sindy Shi
Alibaba Group
+86 150 2192 5635
ruoyun.sry@alibaba-inc.com

Yinan Qian
Alibaba Group
+86 186 0004 0770
yinan.qyn@alibaba-inc.com

LuLu Group International as exclusive retail sponsor of the Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019

LuLu Group International as exclusive retail sponsor of the Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019

Abu Dhabi, UAE, 2017-Nov-24 — /EPR Retail News/ — LuLu Group International today penned a deal with the local organizing committee of Special Olympics World Games Abu Dhabi 2019 to sign up as the Games’ sponsor, making it the first Special Olympics World Summer Games retail sponsor in the 21st century history, and the exclusive retail sponsor of the Games. The Special Olympics Abu Dhabi 2019 already has ADNOC and Etihad as sponsors, and is excited to welcome LuLu Group International.

His Excellency Mohamad Abdulla Al Junaibi, Chairman of the Abu Dhabi World Games Higher Committee, signed the agreement with Mr. Yussuf Ali MA, Chairman of LuLu Group International. As part of the agreement, LuLu will be working alongside Special Olympics’ local organizing committee on a series of in-store and mall activations ahead of the Games and will also be committee to employee volunteering and fundraising activities.

His Excellency Mohammed Abdulla Al Junaibi, comments: “We are grateful and excited to be working with LuLu Group International on the Games. LuLu Group embodies several of the values that the Games are based on, such as tolerance and living in harmony with one another. LuLu’s support will help ensure we put on the most unified Games in history and that we can spread our message of tolerance, unity and inclusivity far and wide.

“The Games are of huge significance to this region and I hope everyone will follow the example of Mr Yussuf Ali. I am so proud that even my own wife and daughter have signed up to volunteer and we are looking forward to everyone else to get involve”

Mr. Yussuf Ali MA, comments: “It is our proud privilege to associate with such a humanitarian international event which is going to further strengthen Abu Dhabi’s and UAE’s image as one of the most benevolent countries in the world. I look at this partnership not just as a sponsorship agreement, but as a concrete step towards making this world take note of people with special abilities and offers them greater role in life.”

The Special Olympics World Games is a global event that takes place once every two years catering to athletes of determination with intellectual disabilities. It represents the highlight event of the global Special Olympics movement. Abu Dhabi will become the first city in the Middle East and North Africa to host the prestigious Games. The event from 14 to 21 March 2019 will draw in more than 7,000 athletes from 170 nations, making it the world’s largest sporting and humanitarian event.

Thousands of overseas visitors are expected to fly into the UAE to watch the action, while Special Olympics’ estimates of 500,000 spectators would make the event the largest ever attended in the UAE capital.

SOURCE: LuLu Group International

CONTACT

+971 2 4182000
+971 2 6421716
headoffice@ae.lulumea.com

marketing@ae.lulumea.com

 

Geoffrey Bennett to be recognized as Nebraska’s 2017 Citizen Hero during halftime of the Hy-Vee Heroes Game

“Citizen Heroes” will be recognized during halftime of the Nebraska Cornhuskers versus Iowa Hawkeye football game

Omaha, NE, 2017-Nov-22 — /EPR Retail News/ — A Norfolk, Nebraska, man will be honored this week for saving the life of a local woman who was critically injured after being struck by a vehicle as she waited near her broken down car during a winter snowstorm last December.

Geoffrey Bennett will be recognized as Nebraska’s 2017 Citizen Hero during halftime of the Hy-Vee Heroes Game between the Nebraska Cornhuskers and Iowa Hawkeyes at Memorial Stadium in Lincoln this Friday.  Bennett will be joined on the field by Jerry Goeders of Dayton, Iowa, who will be recognized as Iowa’s 2017 Citizen Hero.

“These two Hy-Vee Heroes Game honorees truly exemplify what it means to be a hero,” said Jill Orton, Regional Executive for the American Red Cross Nebraska, Kansas, Southwest Iowa Region. “Their life-saving actions define why the American Red Cross, Hy-Vee, the University of Nebraska and the University of Iowa partner each year to showcase extraordinary citizens in both states.”

Bennett, Goeders, and members of their families will be guests of the Huskers and Hawkeyes at Friday’s game and will participate in a variety of special pregame activities. During halftime of the Hy-Vee Heroes Game, the athletic departments from both schools will make a special presentation to both citizen heroes, and their names will also be inscribed on the Hy-Vee Heroes Game trophy.

Earlier this year, fans of both schools were invited to nominate residents of Nebraska and Iowa who performed extraordinary acts of heroism and service in their communities for the “citizen hero” award. Staff and volunteers from the American Red Cross selected the winners.

BACKGROUND:

Geoffrey Bennett – Officials credit the quick actions of then 25-year-old Geoffrey Bennett for saving the life of a woman who had been critically injured when she was struck by a passing vehicle as she waited near her broken down vehicle during a winter snowstorm in Omaha last December. Bennett, who serves in the Army National Guard, stopped at the scene and found that the 34-year-old woman had severe injuries to her leg, which was later amputated. Bennett used his belt to stop the bleeding, and gave the woman his hat to keep her warm as they awaited emergency crews. He stayed with the woman and her friend, a 28-year-old man, who had arrived earlier to try and fix the car. He was also badly injured. Had it not been for Bennett’s heroism during the snowstorm, the two accident victims may not have received the life-saving assistance they needed.

Jerry Goeders – It was 40-year-old Jerry Goeders’ last day of vacation with his family at Lake Rathbun in Moravia, Iowa, last summer when he heard a couple screaming for help as an 8-year-old girl was struggling to stay above water far from the shore. Goeders sprinted down a hill, ran across the beach and jumped into the water, swimming a long distance to reach the girl. He was able to get a hold of her, and assured her during the swim back to shore that everything would be all right. Without Goeders’ selfless, quick action and strength during the tiring swim across the lake, the outcome would have turned tragic for the child. Goeders’ family witnessed his heroism and how he put his own life at risk. They tell others that if they’re around anyone who doesn’t know how to swim, please encourage them to keep out of the water or wear a life jacket.

About the American Red Cross:
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides emotional support to victims of disasters; supplies about 40 percent of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; provides international humanitarian aid; and supports military members and their families. The Red Cross is a not-for-profit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to perform its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or visit us on Twitter at @RedCross.

About Hy-Vee, Inc.:
Hy-Vee, Inc. is an employee-owned corporation operating more than 245 retail stores across eight Midwestern states with sales of $10 billion annually. The supermarket chain is synonymous with quality, variety, convenience, healthy lifestyles, culinary expertise and superior customer service. Hy-Vee ranks in the Top 10 Most Trusted Brands and has been named one of America’s Top 5 favorite grocery stores. The company’s 85,000 employees provide “A Helpful Smile in Every Aisle” to customers every day. For additional information, visit www.hy-vee.com.

Contact Information:

Nebraska Hero (Geoffrey Bennett)
Richard Dinsdale
American Red Cross Nebraska, Kansas, SW Iowa Regional Communications & Marketing Mgr
Cell: (402) 677-7404

Iowa Hero (Jerry Goeders)
Mark Tauscheck
American Red Cross Iowa Regional Communications Officer
Cell: (515) 664-6326

Hy-Vee, Inc.
Amy McCoy
Director of Communications
Cell: (402) 201-5097

Source: Hy-Vee, Inc.

StubHub to continue to serve as the Official Fan to Fan Ticket Marketplace of MLB.com and Major League Clubs

StubHub to continue to serve as the Official Fan to Fan Ticket Marketplace of MLB.com and Major League Clubs

 

The agreement extends StubHub’s partnership as the official fan to fan ticket marketplace of MLB.com and MLB clubs.

San Jose, CA, 2017-Nov-20 — /EPR Retail News/ — StubHub, the world’s largest ticket marketplace, and Major League Baseball (MLB) today (Nov 17, 2017) announced that they have reached a five-year renewal for StubHub to continue to serve as the Official Fan to Fan Ticket Marketplace of MLB.com and the 30 Major League Clubs. Terms of the agreement were not disclosed.

The renewal builds on the partnership that originally began in 2007. This new agreement will provide StubHub with an exclusive ticketing integration with MLB.com and the 30 clubs, providing baseball fans with a secure and seamless experience to buy and sell MLB tickets. The new deal also represents a renewed commitment to develop new ticketing technology, as well as to deploy 10+ years of combined data to enhance the ticketing and fan experience.

“Our long-standing partnership with MLB and the clubs has been marked by consistent and powerful innovation to best serve the fans,” said StubHub General Manager, North America, Perkins Miller. “With this investment, StubHub and MLB will continue to combine forces to enhance the game-day experience, as we work even more closely with our 30 club partners.”

“StubHub has been a valuable partner for our teams and their fans over the past decade, consistently demonstrating agility to adapt quickly in an ever-changing environment,” said Noah Garden, Executive Vice President, Business for Major League Baseball. “Their commitment to continue serving our teams and fans with a secure, reliable ticketing solution rooted in innovation remains a key ingredient for our partnership to deliver on its promise for the next five years.”

With the agreement, all MLB tickets will be fully integrated with the StubHub platform, providing fans the ability to resell and purchase tickets with confidence and ease. In addition to the ticketing integration, StubHub’s innovative technology also provides tools for customers, including pricing guidance for sellers and panoramic 360-degree virtual view-from-seats for buyers.

Through its partnership with MLB, StubHub will receive marketing and sponsorship benefits, including use of official MLB and club marks in various online, media and digital assets, plus outfield wall and home plate rotational signage at MLB venues.

Contact:

(408) 376-7400
press@ ebay.com

Source: eBay

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Visa adds Nigerian Women’s Bobsled Team to Team Visa

Visa adds Nigerian Women’s Bobsled Team to Team Visa

 

Inspired by their determination, Visa helps pave the way to PyeongChang for this group of Olympic hopefuls

SAN FRANCISCO, 2017-Nov-17 — /EPR Retail News/ — Visa (NYSE:V) today (Nov. 15, 2017) announced the addition of three athletes who make up the Nigerian Women’s Bobsled Team to Team Visa, currently training to become the first ever African representatives, men or women, to qualify for the Olympic Winter Games in the sport of Bobsled. Together, Bobsled pilot Seun Adigun, and brakemen Ngozi Onwumere and Akuoma Omeoga, combine their elite track backgrounds to chase their bobsled dreams.

Without access to proper training equipment or valuable ice time to perfect their skills, the members of the Nigerian Women’s Bobsled Team started their journey on the snow-less grounds of Houston, Texas, in a wooden sled they nicknamed ‘The Maeflower.’ Once the team set their sights on the Olympic Winter Games PyeongChang 2018, they established a crowdfunding website hoping to raise the much-needed funds to get to PyeongChang. Upon discovering the page, Visa was inspired by their story and determination to carve out a place in history and pledged to help solidify the team’s trip to the Olympic Winter Games.

“When we first heard their story we recognized the collective spirit of these athletes as a perfect fit for Team Visa,” said Chris Curtin, chief brand and innovation marketing officer at Visa. “By joining Team Visa, we hope to provide this group of determined athletes with a global stage to tell their story and inspire athletes all over the world to follow their dreams and never give up.”

The athleticism and determination of each member of the Nigerian Women’s Bobsled Team is palpable, as they push to rewrite history in their sport:

  • Seun Adigun (Nigeria, Bobsled Driver): Adigun represented Nigeria in the 100m hurdles at the London 2012 Olympic Games. Wanting to get back on the Olympic stage, she began training for bobsled in 2014.
  • Ngozi Onwumere (Nigeria, Bobsled Breakmen): Onwumere, a former competitive sprinter, clinched a Silver and Gold medal at the 2015 African Games in Republic of the Congo in the 200m and 4x100m relay, respectively. Onwumere started training after being recruited by Adigun in 2016.
  • Akuoma Omeoga (Nigeria, Bobsled Breakmen): Omeoga is a graduate of the University of Minnesota where she was a sprinter for the university’s track and field team, competing in the 100m and 200m races. The Olympic Winter Games PyeongChang 2018 will be the first time she is representing Nigeria.

“Already the support and encouragement we have felt as part of Team Visa has been a dream come true,” said Seun Adigun, driver of the Nigerian Women’s Bobsled Team. “We are proud to be part of a team that shares our mission and has connected us with the resources we needed to reach our goal, and hopefully empower others to do the same.”

Since the program began in 2000, Team Visa has supported over 400 Olympic and Paralympic Athletes and hopefuls by providing them with the tools, resources and support they need to reach their highest potential, regardless of origin or background. Team Visa features a diverse group of Olympic and Paralympic athletes who embody our core values – acceptance, partnership and innovation – and was cultivated with the global reach of the Olympic and Paralympic Games in mind.

The women of the Nigerian Women’s Bobsled Team joins Team Visa’s diverse roster of athletes, which includes: Mikaela Shiffrin (USA), Chloe Kim(USA), Gus Kenworthy (USA), Hilary Knight (USA), Oksana Masters (USA), Mark McMorris (Canada), Lee Sang-Hwa (South Korea), Kamil Stoch(Poland) and others.

For additional information on Team Visa, follow along at @VisaNews on Twitter and visit www.visa.com.

About Visa Inc.

Visa Inc. (NYSE:V) is the world’s leader in digital payments. Our mission is to connect the world through the most innovative, reliable and secure payment network – enabling individuals, businesses and economies to thrive. Our advanced global processing network, VisaNet, provides secure and reliable payments around the world, and is capable of handling more than 65,000 transaction messages a second. The company’s relentless focus on innovation is a catalyst for the rapid growth of connected commerce on any device, and a driving force behind the dream of a cashless future for everyone, everywhere. As the world moves from analog to digital, Visa is applying our brand, products, people, network and scale to reshape the future of commerce. For more information, visit usa.visa.com/aboutvisavisacorporate.tumblr.com and @VisaNews.

Contact:
Bitsy Rich
415-813-7252
erich@visa.com

Sarah Hamblen
415-728-7268
shamblen@visa.com

Source: Visa Inc.

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Hy-Vee announces partnership with The Minnesota Timberwolves, Minnesota Lynx and Iowa Wolves

Minneapolis-St. Paul, 2017-Nov-16 — /EPR Retail News/ — The Minnesota Timberwolves, Minnesota Lynx and Iowa Wolves today (11/15/2017) announced a new long-term partnership with Hy-Vee, Inc. to be the teams’ official grocery, pharmacy and floral partner.

“We couldn’t be more excited to begin this partnership with Hy-Vee and welcome them into our Timberwolves, Lynx and Iowa Wolves family,” said Timberwolves & Lynx CEO Ethan Casson. “Hy-Vee is a leader in our market with incredibly loyal customers that has seen significant growth recently, which mirrors the current state of our three brands as well. We look forward to many years of growing these two organizations together and engaging with our phenomenal fan bases.”

The partnership includes a digital signage takeover in arena prior to, during and immediately following the opening tip for all Timberwolves, Lynx and Iowa Wolves regular season home games. Hy-Vee will also have digital signage on the exterior of Target Center and additional signage elements in-arena throughout the games. For the Iowa Wolves, Hy-Vee’s logo will be placed near mid-court inside Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines, Iowa.

One unique element of the partnership gives Hy-Vee the opportunity to leverage a professional sports team’s chef for custom content. Timberwolves & Lynx Executive Chef David Fhima will create a digital cookbook with Hy-Vee products, which includes a year-long content series on the teams’ digital, social and in-arena channels.

The two organizations will also team up on community relations initiatives. The partnership with the Timberwolves and Lynx will focus on fighting hunger while the Iowa Wolves will focus on Hy-Vee’s KidsFit initiative as well as entitlement of the team’s annual school day game called Education Celebration.

“The Timberwolves, Lynx and Iowa Wolves have a passionate fan base that spans throughout the region and we are thrilled to be a part of all the action and excitement,” said Randy Edeker, Hy-Vee’s chairman, CEO and president. “Like Hy-Vee, these teams are deeply dedicated to the communities they are in, making this connection a true fit when it comes to our growing list of sports partnerships.”

The teams will support other in-market initiatives, such as in-store activations and/or school visits. Select Hy-Vee stores will also carry Timberwolves merchandise.

Hy-Vee, Inc.
Hy-Vee, Inc. is an employee-owned corporation operating more than 245 retail stores across eight Midwestern states with sales of $10 billion annually. The supermarket chain is synonymous with quality, variety, convenience, healthy lifestyles, culinary expertise and superior customer service. Hy-Vee ranks in the Top 10 Most Trusted Brands and has been named one of America’s Top 5 favorite grocery stores. The company’s 85,000 employees provide “A Helpful Smile in Every Aisle” to customers every day. For additional information, visit www.hy-vee.com.

Contact Information:
Kirsten Wenker
Kirsten.Wenker@timberwolves.com  
612-673-8419

Hy-Vee Contact Information:
Tina Potthoff
tpotthoff@hy-vee.com,
515-559-5770

Source: Hy-Vee, Inc.

SPAR Slovenia a proud sponsor of the EuroBasket Champions

Slovenia, 2017-Nov-15 — /EPR Retail News/ — SPAR Slovenia has been the sponsor of the national basketball team for 17 years and this year’s sponsorship was extra special with the team being crowned European Champions at the EuroBasket finals in Istanbul.

There were more than 7,000 Slovenians in the stands to support their team and watch them beat rivals, Serbia, 93:85. This was the biggest win in the history of Slovenian sport and it triggered a wave of euphoria amongst Slovenian sports fans.

Along with it being an historical sporting win for the small country of Slovenia, the event itself was also historical in terms of television viewership as the final was the most-watched sports programme in the history of Slovenian television. In addition to this, the medal ceremony was the most-watched of all TV broadcasts in Slovenia since the introduction of ratings. With the SPAR Brand visible on all player shirts, the awareness that this kind of viewership generated is immense.

Following the win in Turkey, 20,000 Slovenians flocked to the Congress square in the country’s capital, Ljubljana, to welcome home their champions, crying out the popular chant: “He who isn’t jumping, isn’t Slovenian!”

SPAR Slovenia was extremely proud to have sponsored the team and be a part of this historic win after 17 years of partnership.

Watch the Best of Slovenia here from the EuroBasket Championships 2017.

SPAR Slovenia – Basketball idols from SPAR International on Vimeo.

For more sports sponsorship related news, follow this link.

About SPAR Slovenia:

SPAR Slovenia, operated by ASPIAG (Austria SPAR International AG), was founded in 1992. SPAR Slovenia has become a key employer in the country, with a Distribution Centre, bakery and corporate owned stores providing employment opportunities.

Two store formats dominate in Slovenia: INTERSPAR Hypermarkets and SPAR Supermarkets. SPAR is one of the most trusted companies in the country with Nielson research placing SPAR first in terms of freshness, quality and range.

Contact:

SPAR International
Email: info@spar-international.com
Tel: +3120 626 6749

Source: Spar International

DICK’S Sporting Goods announces the appointment of Paul Gaffney as Chief Technology Officer

Paul Gaffney to Lead DICK’S Overall Technology Efforts

PITTSBURGH, 2017-Nov-15 — /EPR Retail News/ — DICK’S Sporting Goods (NYSE: DKS) today  (November 14, 2017) announced Paul Gaffney has been named Chief Technology Officer, effective November 20. In this role, Gaffney will be responsible for the Company’s technology, including infrastructure, eCommerce platforms and new and evolving digital platforms.

“Paul is joining the Company at a critical time as we’re evolving every day through our digital transformation efforts,” said Edward W. Stack, Chairman & Chief Executive Officer. “Paul’s experience will make an immediate impact on the Company and we’re thrilled to welcome him to the DICK’S family.”

Gaffney joins DICK’S from The Home Depot, where he most recently served as the Senior Vice President of Information Technology, responsible for the organization’s software engineering, user-centered design and applications. While at The Home Depot, Gaffney was responsible for leading their digital revolution, inspiring the engineering team to deliver customer focused software to millions of customers and over 400,000 associates.

Paul Gaffney remarked, “I’m excited to join the DICK’S Sporting Goods team at this important time of focus and investment in technology as a key enabler to better communicate with and serve our customers.”

Throughout his career, Gaffney held a variety of senior leadership roles, most notably serving as President and Chief Executive Officer with AAA Northern California. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Computer Science from Harvard University and is a Henry Crown Fellow at the Aspen Institute.

About DICK’S Sporting Goods, Inc.
Founded in 1948, DICK’S Sporting Goods, Inc. is a leading omni-channel sporting goods retailer offering an extensive assortment of authentic, high-quality sports equipment, apparel, footwear and accessories. As of October 28, 2017, the Company operated more than 715 DICK’S Sporting Goods locations across the United States, serving and inspiring athletes and outdoor enthusiasts to achieve their personal best through a blend of dedicated associates, in-store services and unique specialty shop-in-shops dedicated to Team Sports, Athletic Apparel, Golf, Lodge/Outdoor, Fitness and Footwear. Headquartered in Pittsburgh, PA, DICK’S also owns and operates Golf Galaxy and Field & Stream specialty stores, as well as DICK’S Team Sports HQ, an all-in-one youth sports digital platform offering free league management services, mobile apps for scheduling, communications and live scorekeeping, custom uniforms and FanWear and access to donations and sponsorships. DICK’S offers its products through a content-rich eCommerce platform that is integrated with its store network and provides customers with the convenience and expertise of a 24-hour storefront. For more information, visit the Press Room or Investor Relations pages at dicks.com.

Contact:

DICK’S Sporting Goods
press@dcsg.com
724-273-5552

Source: DICK’S Sporting Goods, Inc.

DICK’S Sporting Goods announces 2017 holiday marketing and promotional plans

DICK’S is a one-stop destination for shoppers this holiday season with extended store hours, free shipping and doorbusters

PITTSBURGH, P.A., 2017-Nov-13 — /EPR Retail News/ — DICK’S Sporting Goods (NYSE: DKS), a leading omni-channel sporting goods retailer offering an extensive assortment of high-quality sports equipment, apparel, footwear and accessories, announced today its upcoming holiday marketing and promotional plans.

Whether shopping at one of the retailer’s more than 715 locations, dicks.com or shopping on its mobile app, DICK’S Sporting Goods is the go-to retailer this holiday season to ”Give The Gift Of Sport” for all the athletes, fitness and outdoor enthusiasts on your holiday shopping list.

Holiday Shopping on Thanksgiving and Black Friday

Most DICK’S locations nationwide will offer holiday shoppers extended store hours on Thanksgiving (Thursday, November 23) and Black Friday (Friday, November 24). Customers can also shop deals online all day on Thanksgiving.

  • Thanksgiving – Stores open at 6:00 p.m. and remain open until 2:00 a.m. Friday.
  • Black Friday – Stores re-open at 5:00 a.m. and remain open until 10:00 p.m.

The Hottest Fitness Apparel, Footwear, Team Sports and Outdoor Equipment

From women’s athleisure apparel, to equipment for team sports, an unrivaled outerwear collection and DICK’S fan shop, DICK’S Sporting Goods has gifts that are perfect for everyone.

New for the 2017 holiday season, select DICK’S Sporting Goods locations will be selling the must have gifts of the season from Patagonia, exclusive styles from adidas and the Bowflex M5, available exclusively at DICK’S Sporting Goods.

To help ease the rush of holiday shopping, DICK’S Sporting Goods is bringing the excitement and savings of Black Friday to customers earlier than ever this year, with Black Friday savings beginning on Sunday, November 19, on the largest number of styles in company history.

A number of offers and limited-time doorbusters will be available in-store or online at dicks.com throughout Black Friday Week. A sample of deals include:

  • Receive $25 DICK’S Cash with a Yeti purchase of $150 or more; $50 DICK’S Cash with a Yeti purchase $300 or more – see dicks.com for details
  • 54” Warrior In-Ground Basketball Hoop will be $600 OFF: $399.99 (was $999.99)
  • The North Face Men’s and Women’s Alpz Down Jacket found exclusively at DICK’S will be $99.98 (was $160)
  • 50-70% OFF all regular price Diamondback & Huffy bikes (in-store only) (Reg $84.99 – $799.99)
  • The  Jump Power 14’ Trampoline with safety net will be $159.98 (was $299.99)
  • Select Men’s, Women’s, Kids NCAA Hoodies will be available for $19.98 (was $49.99 – $59.99)
  • $170 off M/W Top-Flite XL Complete sets (was $299.99) – Lowest price ever

Additional Holiday Deals and Promotions Exclusively at dicks.com

Now through the holiday season, DICK’S Sporting Goods will offer free shipping on online orders, with no minimum purchase required. Oversized or overweight items will still be subject to a surcharge.

Starting Sunday, November 26, DICK’S will hold its Cyber Week sale at dicks.com and in-store with thousands of styles on sale. These Cyber Week deals will run through Saturday, December 2. The following day, DICK’S Sporting Goods will kick-off its “Hot Holiday Deals,” revealing new deals daily at dicks.com and in-store.

Customers can continue to get the products they want at an unbeatable price this holiday season with DICK’S Best Price Guarantee. If a customer finds a lower advertised price, DICK’S will match it. Customers must present a competitor’s sales ad to a DICK’S sales associate, who will review the ad and if qualified, then they will execute a price match at the register.

Best In-Class Omni-Channel Platform Offers Convenience

As a leading omni-channel retailer, DICK’S will offer convenience and flexibility to customers this holiday season whether in-store, online at dicks.com or through the DICK’S mobile app.

  • Buy Online and Pick-up In-Store Purchases (BOPIS): DICK’S offers customers the option to purchase products online and pick-up their items at a nearby DICK’S location. Customers will be able to purchase gifts at dicks.com until noon local time on Christmas Eve (Sunday, December 24) and pick them up in-store before the store closes (hours vary by store location). BOPIS services will be available to customers throughout the entire holiday season. Exclusions may apply to certain items.
  • Endless Shopping Aisle: To enhance its ability to provide an even wider selection and convenience to in-store customers, DICK’S arms its associates with mobile devices, kiosks and other workstations to offer customers an “Endless Aisle” experience.  If an item is sold out, or only sold online, associates can place an order for a customer and have it shipped directly to their homes, in most cases with free shipping.

To learn more about shopping at DICK’S this holiday season, visit dicks.com.

 

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About DICK’S Sporting Goods, Inc.

Founded in 1948, DICK’S Sporting Goods, Inc. is a leading omni-channel sporting goods retailer offering an extensive assortment of authentic, high-quality sports equipment, apparel, footwear and accessories. As of October 28, 2017, the Company operated more than 715 DICK’S Sporting Goods locations across the United States, serving and inspiring athletes and outdoor enthusiasts to achieve their personal best through a blend of dedicated associates, in-store services and unique specialty shop-in-shops dedicated to Team Sports, Athletic Apparel, Golf, Lodge/Outdoor, Fitness and Footwear. Headquartered in Pittsburgh, PA, DICK’S also owns and operates Golf Galaxy and Field & Stream specialty stores, as well as DICK’S Team Sports HQ, an all-in-one youth sports digital platform offering free league management services, mobile apps for scheduling, communications and live scorekeeping, custom uniforms and FanWear and access to donations and sponsorships. DICK’S offers its products through a content-rich eCommerce platform that is integrated with its store network and provides customers with the convenience and expertise of a 24-hour storefront.  For more information, visit the Press Room or Investor Relations pages at dicks.com.

SOURCE: DICK’S Sporting Goods

Contact: DICK’S Sporting Goods – press@dcsg.com

Visa creates wearable payment devices in the spirit of the Olympic Winter Games

Visa creates wearable payment devices in the spirit of the Olympic Winter Games

 

Fans and Team Visa Athletes will enjoy the convenience and style of Visa payment-enabled gloves, stickers and commemorative Olympic pins

SAN FRANCISCO, 2017-Nov-10 — /EPR Retail News/ — Visa (NYSE: V), the exclusive payment technology partner at the Olympic and Paralympic Games, today (Nov. 8, 2017) introduced three commercially available wearable payment devices. In the spirit of the Olympic Winter Games, Visa created NFC-enabled payment gloves, commemorative stickers and Olympic pins that allow fans and athletes to complete seamless and secure payments with a simple tap at any contactless-enabled terminal.

“We are looking forward to transforming the payment experience for everyone who attends the upcoming Olympic Winter Games in PyeongChang,” said Iain Jamieson, Korea country manager at Visa. “At Visa, we have been working tirelessly to ensure all of the Olympic venues are equipped with the very latest payment capabilities to provide the best experience possible for all those on-site.”

Visa teamed up with Lotte Card, the financial arm of South Korean-based retail giant, Lotte Department Store, to produce and make these new prepaid payment wearables available for purchase in Korea beginning November 9. About the products:

  • Commemorative Olympic Pin: Inspired by the long-standing tradition of collecting commemorative pins at the Olympic Games, Visa is bringing to market four unique lapel pins featuring custom PyeongChang 2018 designs to offer a payment-enabled collectable for fans and athletes to utilize on-site. Cost per pin is KRW5,000 plus desired embedded prepaid amounts valued at KRW30,000 or KRW50,000.
  • Payment-Enabled Gloves: The average temperature in PyeongChang will be – 4.8°C1, so gloves will be a must-have! This payment glove will offer fans a way to pay safely and securely without having to get cold hands. The gloves contain a dual interface chip housed with a contactless antenna capable of completing purchases throughout official Olympic Venues and compatible readers globally. The gloves will come with embedded prepaid amounts valued at KRW30,000 or KRW50,000.
  • Sticker: With a thin and flexible adhesive design and an embedded dual interface NFC-chip and antenna, these micro-tags can be attached to almost anything to make seamless payments in a moment’s notice. The wearable sticker is available in denominations of KRW30,000, KRW50,000, KRW100,000 and KRW200,000. The collection includes 8 distinct designs including Soohorang – the official PyeongChang 2018 mascot – the Korean flag, and much more.

“It is important to me, as a Winter Olympian, to work with a brand like Visa that not only supports a diverse group of athletes, but also enables an enhanced fan experience for those at the Games,” said Mikaela Shiffrin, USA Olympic gold medalist and Team Visa athlete. “Olympic pins are always the most coveted collectibles, these Visa pins really up the ante.”

Starting November 9, the stickers and pins can be purchased from Lotte Card’s customer centers in Korea and the Lotte Card website. During the Games, all three wearables will also be available for purchase at the Olympic Superstores in conveniently located Visa vending machines.

“Growing up in South Korea, I am proud that my home country is hosting the Games, and is using this opportunity to introduce Visa payment innovations to the rest of the world,” said Park, Seung-Hi, South Korean Olympic Speed Skating and Team Visa athlete. “These payment gloves provide a hassle-free way to pay, even when it’s cold!”

In addition to the wearables and as the exclusive payment partner of the Olympic Games, Visa is facilitating and managing the entire payment system infrastructure and network throughout all venues within the Games. This includes more than 1,000 contactless point-of-sale terminals capable of accepting mobile and wearable payments.

As the payments industry increasingly shifts from plastic to digital, new technology advances from Visa and its partners are bringing consumers a simple and secure purchasing experience. To learn more about Visa and its Olympic sponsorship, visit https://usa.visa.com/about-visa/sponsorships-promotions/olympics-partnership.html.

About Visa Inc.

Visa Inc. (NYSE: V) is the world’s leader in digital payments. Our mission is to connect the world through the most innovative, reliable and secure payment network – enabling individuals, businesses and economies to thrive. Our advanced global processing network, VisaNet, provides secure and reliable payments around the world, and is capable of handling more than 65,000 transaction messages a second. The company’s relentless focus on innovation is a catalyst for the rapid growth of connected commerce on any device, and a driving force behind the dream of a cashless future for everyone, everywhere. As the world moves from analog to digital, Visa is applying our brand, products, people, network and scale to reshape the future of commerce. For more information, visit usa.visa.com/aboutvisavisacorporate.tumblr.com and @VisaNews.

1 Olympic Winter Games PyeongChang 2018 Organizing Committee official website: https://www.pyeongchang2018.com/en/pyeongchang-weather-conditions

Contact:
Bitsy Rich
415-813-7252
erich@visa.com

Sarah Hamblen
415-728-7268
shamblen@visa.com

Source: Visa Inc.

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Dunkin’ Donuts renews sponsorship of the National Women’s Hockey League

Dunkin’ Donuts renews sponsorship of the National Women’s Hockey League

 

Dunkin’ Donuts renews agreement as official coffee and quick service restaurant of the NWHL

CANTON, MA, 2017-Nov-01 — /EPR Retail News/ — As the National Women’s Hockey League (NWHL) drops the puck for the start of its third season, Dunkin’ Donuts has renewed its sponsorship of the league, confirming its commitment to the NWHL and strong support for women’s hockey. Dunkin’ Donuts, which became the league’s first-ever official corporate sponsor in its inaugural season in 2015, will remain the official coffee and quick service restaurant of the NWHL as part of the extended agreement for the upcoming season.

Through its partnership, Dunkin’ Donuts will continue to coordinate with the NWHL’s four franchises – Boston Pride, Connecticut Whale, Metropolitan Riveters and defending champions Buffalo Beauts – to provide female youth players throughout key markets with private hockey clinics featuring team representatives. Additionally, Dunkin’ Donuts’ iconic pink and orange logo will continue to be featured on all team jerseys, signage on league goal posts and behind each bench, and advertising on www.nwhl.zone and each team website.

According to Tom Manchester, Vice President, Field Marketing, Dunkin’ Donuts, “Dunkin’ Donuts has a long hockey heritage, from sponsoring leagues, teams and arenas to keeping fans and families running with a hot cup of coffee in the stands or on the way to practice. Our partnership with the NWHL not only deepens our connection to hockey culture, but helps drive critical awareness for female athletes and the increasing popularity of women’s hockey. It has been a privilege to be part of this important league and we look forward to continuing our support of the NWHL as a pinnacle of women’s hockey.”

The NWHL is the first professional women’s hockey league in North America. Its new season begins tomorrow with the start of each team’s 16-game schedule, and concludes in March 2018 with playoffs and the champion team raising the Isobel Cup, the championship trophy named after the daughter of Lord Stanley. Fans across the globe can enjoy the Twitter NWHL Game of the Week streamed live for free at NWHL.twitter.com.

According to NWHL Commissioner Dani Rylan, “Dunkin’ Donuts has been a fantastic partner and friend for the NWHL since the beginning, and their invaluable support of our league and commitment to our athletes has played a significant role in our success in bringing fans the chance to watch some of the best women’s hockey players in the world. Through our Dunkin’ Donuts clinics, young girls are not only able to visualize the dream of becoming professional players, they can learn first-hand from NWHL athletes. The NWHL truly runs on Dunkin’, and on behalf of our teams and our players we could not be more pleased that Dunkin’ Donuts will remain an important part of our league.”

Dunkin’ Donuts has scored key sponsorships in recent years to further its mission to support female athletes and drive awareness of the increasingly popular sport of women’s hockey. In 2016 Dunkin’ Donuts announced a multi-year agreement with USA Hockey that includes designation as the Official Coffee Shop of the U.S. Women’s National Team. Dunkin’ Donuts also has a long-standing personal services agreement with two-time Olympic silver medalist Meghan Duggan, a member of the U.S. Women’s National Team since 2006. Duggan, a five-time world champion, has also starred with the NWHL’s Buffalo Beauts.

Dunkin’ Donuts is the official U.S. coffee, donut and breakfast sandwich of the NHL®. The brand has a long and proud history of partnerships across other sports, including the Boston Red Sox, New York Yankees, New York Mets, New York Giants, New York Jets, New England Patriots, and Philadelphia Eagles.

To learn more about Dunkin’ Donuts, visit www.DunkinDonuts.com, or subscribe to the Dunkin’ Donuts blog to receive notifications at https://news.dunkindonuts.com/blog.

About Dunkin’ Donuts

Founded in 1950, Dunkin’ Donuts is America’s favorite all-day, everyday stop for coffee and baked goods. Dunkin’ Donuts is a market leader in the hot regular/decaf/flavored coffee, iced coffee, donut, bagel and muffin categories. Dunkin’ Donuts has earned a No. 1 ranking for customer loyalty in the coffee category by Brand Keys for 11 years running. The company has more than 12,400 restaurants in 46 countries worldwide. Based in Canton, Mass., Dunkin’ Donuts is part of the Dunkin’ Brands Group, Inc. (Nasdaq: DNKN) family of companies. For more information, visit www.DunkinDonuts.com.

Contact:

Michelle King
Dunkin’ Brands
781-737-5200
Michelle.King @dunkinbrands.com

Source: Dunkin’ Donuts

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StubHub becomes the “NFL Authorized Ticket Resale Marketplace” beginning 2018-2019 season

StubHub becomes the “NFL Authorized Ticket Resale Marketplace” beginning 2018-2019 season

With this industry-leading change, StubHub will make it even easier for NFL fans to buy and sell tickets through a host of innovative technologies.

San Jose, CA, 2017-Oct-26 — /EPR Retail News/ — Today (Oct 23, 2017), StubHub announced a multi-year agreement with the National Football League designating StubHub as the “NFL Authorized Ticket Resale Marketplace” beginning with the 2018-2019 season. With the NFL’s recently announced open ticket marketplace, StubHub will be directly integrated with the primary ticketing systems of the League and its clubs, providing an official, safe and seamless way for fans to buy and sell NFL tickets on any digital device.

“We are thrilled that the NFL has chosen StubHub’s massive, industry-leading marketplace to give its fans a seamless and reliable ticketing experience,” said Perkins Miller, GM North America of StubHub.  “We applaud the NFL for being among the first professional sports leagues to provide its fans more choices than ever when it comes to buying and selling tickets.”

“Our goal is to give our fans as many safe, secure options as possible to buy official NFL tickets and to simplify the purchasing process,” said Brian Lafemina, the NFL’s Senior Vice President of Club Business Development. “Partnering with StubHub, a site where many NFL fans buy and sell NFL tickets was a logical step for us and we look forward to working with them to continue to make the NFL ticketing process as seamless as possible.”

Today’s announcement represents the first time that the NFL has permitted an independent marketplace to integrate directly into the primary ticketing systems of its 32 clubs. StubHub, the world’s largest ticketing marketplace, has the most ticketing integrations across the sports industry with exclusive partnerships with more than 90 teams across Major League Baseball, the NBA, NHL, MLS and dozens of leading NCAA school teams.

While the NFL is allowing other ticketing marketplaces to integrate into their primary platform, StubHub will be granted certain exclusive marketing rights and benefits. StubHub will also partner with the NFL to provide insights on customer data as well as jointly work on research to enhance the event-going experience.

With this industry-leading change, StubHub will make it even easier for NFL fans to buy and sell tickets through a host of innovative technologies, including pricing guidance, best value recommendation and panoramic 360-degree virtual view-from-seats.

NFL tickets sold on Stub Hub will now be officially validated by the primary issuer, giving fans an even more seamless and safe ticket-buying experience.

ABOUT STUBHUB

At StubHub, our mission is simple: help fans find fun. We connect fans with their favorite teams, shows and artists and introduce them to the ones they’ll love next. As the largest ticket marketplace in the world, we enable fans to buy and sell tickets to tens of thousands of events, whenever they want, through our desktop and mobile experiences, including our StubHub app for iPhone, iPad, Apple Watch and Android. Offering a superior fan experience at its core, StubHub reinvented the ticket resale market in 2000 and continues to lead it through innovation. Our industry firsts include the introduction of the first ticketing application, the first interactive seat mapping tool and the first live entertainment rewards program, Fan Rewards™. Our business partners include more than 130 properties in MLB, NBA, NHL, MLS and NCAA, plus AEG, AXS and Spectra Ticketing & Fan Engagement. With the acquisition of Ticketbis in August 2016, throughout the world, StubHub provides the total end-to-end event going experience. StubHub is an eBay company (NASDAQ: EBAY). For more information on StubHub, visit StubHub.com or follow @StubHub on TwitterFacebook and Instagram or YouTube.com/StubHub.

Contact:
(408) 376-7400
press@ ebay.com

Source: eBay

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