Aussie Apples has signed a six-figure sponsorship deal with Netball Australia, following the start of the new-look National Netball League.
The three-year sponsorship deal worth $600,000 is the first of its kind for local apple growers, as they look to further grow their presence in the healthy snacking category.
Under the brand Aussie Apples, which is managed by Horticulture Innovation Australia (HIA) on behalf of the nation’s growers, the sponsorship includes high-profile brand exposure at international and national netball games, access to Netball Australia’s prime-time free-to-air TV broadcast, player promotion, and the development of a grassroots healthy eating program called ‘Fresh Step’.
The sponsorship will also see Aussie Apples deliver the fruit to netball carnivals and professional games across the country throughout the 2017 season.
HIA’s general manager of marketing, David Moore, said the sponsorship presents huge opportunities for exposure and penetration for the local apple industry.
“Apples are the ultimate healthy snack, and we’re excited to work closely with Netball Australia to develop the Fresh Step healthy eating program, which will be rolled out through the 1.2 million Australians who play netball,” he said.
Netball Australia’s acting CEO, Marne Fechner, said the sporting body is equally excited to partner with Aussie Apples as it continues to build its high-performance commercial and grassroots programs.
“In this next evolution for netball, we have been seeking to create partnerships with brands who align with our values and vision,” she said.
“With its focus on healthy nutrition and interest in supporting Australia’s leading women’s sport from the grassroots to the elite, we couldn’t be happier in welcoming HIA and apples to netball.”
