Vodafone and Bianco Construction Supplies are the Power’s Joint Major Partners for 2009, with Bianco also committed to the end of 2010.
Vodafone is scaling back all its AFL involvement, including not re-signing as the Major Sponsor of the Brisbane Lions beyond the 2009 season. It has previously ended sponsorship arrangements with West Coast and North Melbourne.
The company is concentrating its sponsorship into motorsport and music.
Vodafone’s decision does not impact on this year’s PAFC budget.
Port Adelaide is working closely with Vodafone locally to continue with the club in 2010 at a lower level of sponsorship.
Port Adelaide Chief Executive Mark Haysman says Vodafone has been a wonderful corporate partner for the Power since the club’s inception into the AFL in 1997.
“We understand Vodafone’s national change of direction in terms of scaling down their AFL club sponsorships,” Haysman said.
“We appreciate the early notice they have given us about not continuing after this season, which gives us an opportunity to get on with finding a new Joint Major for 2010 and beyond.
“Vodafone has been on board with Port Adelaide since our entry into the AFL.
“They began as a Joint Major Partner in 1997 and have been with us in that role for 13 years, along with first Scott’s Transport and since last year Bianco Construction Supplies.
“We are working closely with Vodafone locally to continue our partnership in 2010 and beyond, albeit at a lesser level than Joint Major Partner.
“We look forward to that continued relationship because we regard Vodafone as a very important part of the Port Adelaide Football Club family.”
Declan O’Callaghan, General Manager of Vodafone SA, says: “Vodafone has enjoyed a high-profile association with Port Adelaide over the past 12 years and we wish the club continued success. We are currently exploring alternative partnership opportunities with the club and as a committed fan, you’ll still see me at every home game.”
Pat Cunningham, Head of Sponsorship at Vodafone Australia, says: “Vodafone’s involvement with AFL has delivered strong results, however we are now looking to diversify our sponsorship portfolio into new areas, with a stronger interest in music.”
Vodafone Australia recently announced a brand partnership with MTV Networks Australia. Vodafone is also the major sponsor of V8 Supercars’ TeamVodafone and has a global naming rights partnership with Formula 1 team, Vodafone McLaren Mercedes.
Please note: Vodafone will remain as Joint Major Partner of Port Adelaide for the 2009 season and the decision does not impact on this year’s PAFC budget. Bianco Construction Supplies are signed as a Joint Major Partner for 2009 and 2010.
