AFC Bournemouth
AFC Bournemouth have agreed a club-record deal with M88 to become their official shirt sponsor.
The two-year partnership, which is the biggest in the Cherries’ history, will see the M88 logo featured on the front of the club’s home, away and third shirts from the start of the 2017/18 campaign.
The online gaming company will also receive key branding pitchside at Vitality Stadium during live global broadcasts of AFC Bournemouth’s Premier League matches.
The Asian market has become the Premier League’s highest spending region in terms of media rights, with 63 per cent of the Asian population following the Premier League.
M88’s partnership with the Cherries allows the brand to bring football fans and customers in Asia closer to the club, with the creation of exclusive content and access.
Through the partnership M88 will also run fan promotions and live events that engage their customers and help AFC Bournemouth connect with a wider international football audience.
The partnership was created, planned and negotiated by SportQuake, the go to international sport marketing agency for high growth brands looking to powerfully connect with customers through sport.
The agency provides an end to end service for clients covering planning, buying activation and evaluation.
AFC Bournemouth boss Eddie Howe welcomed the partnership with M88 as an opportunity to increase the international exposure of the club.
He said: “It is probably one of the biggest changes at the club in recent seasons, and the amount of international exposure that AFC Bournemouth is getting is integral for the growth of the club.
“It is fantastic to bring M88 on board, and we look forward to a fruitful partnership for many years to come.
“We are constantly looking at ways to take the club to new levels, both on and off the pitch, and we are delighted that M88 will be joining us as we continue our journey.”
Neill Blake, chief executive at AFC Bournemouth, added: “We are delighted to welcome M88 as the club’s official shirt sponsor.
“M88 is a partner that shares our ambition and aspirations as we look to grow in a new market and enhance our presence in Asia. We have an exciting season ahead, and we look forward to working with M88 for many years.”
A spokesperson at M88 commented: “We are delighted to announce our partnership with AFC Bournemouth.
“Last season the club reached new heights, with a very impressive ninth-place finish, and we look forward to another successful season both on and off the pitch.
“We are excited to engage with the passionate AFC Bournemouth fan base, and can’t wait to bring our loyal customers closer to the club.”
It is fantastic to bring M88 on board, and we look forward to a fruitful partnership.
