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Fila puts large investment into tennis
Fila UK has announced a five-year sponsorship deal with The Championships, Wimbledon. The five-year contract will see Fila provide a range of dual branded performance tennis and leisure footwear styles, until 2012.
The partnership comes as part of Fila's global tennis strategy and the renewed investment in British tennis.
The partnership will mark the launch of the new Fila Alfa tennis shoe that utilises superior components to ensure step in comfort and lasting performance. The Alfa Wimbledon shoe will be worn and merchandised at The Championships, Wimbledon and be available with a hard court and grass court sole unit.
Marc Travis, Fila UK Marketing Manager said: "Tennis has been an essential part of the Fila heritage and this agreement with The All England Lawn Tennis Club is another key partnership that will build the future of the brand within the sport. 2008 marks 35 years of Fila's involvement in tennis."
Fila has also announced it is investing more than £100,000 in tennis for 2008, across a range of partnerships with high-profile tennis events including The Artois Championships, Fortis Classic and Blackrock Masters.
Central to the British tennis season, Fila have secured a two-year contract with The Artois Championships as the official clothing and footwear partner. Fila will be providing custom made products for all event staff as well as offering a range to be merchandised at the event. Another key partnership is a three year deal as official clothing and footwear partner to the Fortis Classic at the Hurlingham Club. Following the success of the 2007 event, Fila UK will also look to continue its involvement with the Blackrock Masters for 2008. Fila UK continues to support the British Davis Cup and Fed Cup teams.
To reinforce their tennis links, Fila UK also sponsors a select number of British elite players, with an emphasis on up-and-coming juniors. Marcus Willis and Neil Pauffley have had an impressive year, winning the Junior Nationals doubles title, and as a result of a successful season in singles, Willis has risen to number 29 in the junior world rankings. Stephanie Cornish recently made it through to the semi-finals of the 16&Under Orange Bowl (Florida), which is recognised as the unofficial world championships for junior tennis. James Ward is the newest addition to the Fila team and is ranked British number 11. Josh Goodall continues to be Fila's top British player (No.6) and is one of the many talents endorsed by Fila UK .
