Chang inks record deal with Everton
Local beer brand Chang extended their record partnership with English Premier League club Everton by signing a three-year shirt-sponsorship deal here yesterday.
Everton’s chief executive Robert Elstone and Thapana Sirivadhanabhakdi, president and CEO of Chang-makers ThaiBev, inked a ?16-million deal, which is by far the most lucrative in the 136-year history of the Merseyside club.
The signing ceremony at Plaza Athenee hotel was witnessed by Blues’ legend Graeme Sharp, current striker Arouna Kone and British Ambassador Mark Kent.
The Chang logo has adorned shirts in the Premier League for longer than any other team.
“Everton has enjoyed a special relationship with Chang for 10 years,” said Elstone. “In that period, we have grown to understand each other, delivered great work, helped achieve objectives and developed a truly great partnership and, indeed a friendship, based on mutual trust, respect and affection.
“Chang is a business that has always provided great support, not just financially, but also as a gateway to our fans in Thailand. Everton is exceptionally proud to extend its partnership with a world-class organisation, an organisation where people matter; I would like to thank Khun Thapana and all our friends at Chang for supporting our team,” said the Everton CEO.
Having signed with the beer-makers in 2004, the Blues have now worn the iconic Chang brand for 10 seasons, renewing the partnership on four occasions – in 2005, 2008, 2010 and now in 2014.
The partnership has also focused on Thai footballing talent and both parties will continue to invest resources in projects aimed at improving and developing the game in the Kingdom.
“Talented Thai football youngsters can earn a chance to be trained by world-renowned Everton Academy coaches. We are holding the ‘Chang-Everton: More Good Years’ event, celebrating 10 years of partnership to further boost Thai talent to the next level,” said Thapana.
To celebrate the 10th anniversary, Chang will conduct a “More Good Years, Celebrating 10 Years of Friendship” contest that offers fans a chance to win six seats in the Goodison Park VIP box for the Everton-Manchester United game on April 20. Fans have to post a picture of themselves and friends with a Chang drink at www.facebook.com/Changworld along with a good story with the theme “Good Friendship that lasts like the Chang-Everton 10 year partnership”.
Each of the six winners will receive a free trip for two including airline tickets, accommodation and match tickets. The contest is open until April 4.
