Professional sports promotions have, in the past, been very, very good to Yokohama Tire Corporation (YTC) and its dealers, the company says. This season, the Fullerton, Calif.-based tire maker is pitching what it calls another masterpiece: free Cincinnati Reds jerseys and a "VIP Experience" with the New York Yankees. The two promotions, according to Alan Holtschneider, YTC manager, advertising, promotions and events, run through July 7.
The Reds’ "Home Team Pride" promotion provides consumers with a free, official replica team jersey when purchasing four Yokohama tires from participating retailers.
"This is our first time partnering with the Reds," said Holtschneider, "and we think the redemption rate will be very strong for our dealers. The Reds won the National League Central division last year, are playing well this season and have a strong fan base." To locate participating retailers, consumers can visit www.yokohamatire.com/dealer_search/ and enter their ZIP code.
Yokohama’s agreement with the Reds includes signage behind first base, as well as pre-game, post-game and in-game spots on the Reds Radio Network throughout the season; in-stadium displays and in-game announcements on the public address system and LED scoreboard.
YTC has been a New York Yankees sponsor for two seasons. This year, Yokohama is conducting a consumer sweepstakes promotion with the 27-time World Champions.
"It’s the ultimate New York Yankees fan’s dream," said Holtschneider. "The winner and three guests will get a chance to watch the iconic team on the field during batting practice, take in the game from Field MVP seats and receive a limited-edition New York Yankees gift bag."
The sweepstakes is open to residents of New York, New Jersey, Pennsylvania and Connecticut, who can either text STS2WIN to 89269 or visit Yankees.com/STSVIP to enter.
YTC’s New York Yankees sponsorship also includes signage on the bleacher wall in left field at Yankee Stadium.
In addition to the Reds and New York Yankees, Yokohama’s 2013 baseball sponsorships includes a deal with the Los Angeles Angels.
For more information on Yokohama, visit www.yokohamatire.com.