Philips Signs Jones To Rugby Series Sponsorship

Philips Signs Ian Jones To Drive Forward International Rugby Series Sponsorship

Leading consumer electronics company Philips has renewed its sponsorship of the International Rugby Series for a further two years and appointed former All Blacks lock Ian Jones as its rugby ambassador for 2003 and 2004.

The 2003 Philips International Rugby Series encompasses all of the All Blacks New Zealand-based games, including tests against England, Wales and France, together with Tri-Nations matches against South Africa and Australia. It also includes England playing the New Zealand Maori on June 9.

In a new initiative for Philips, Ian Jones - ' The Kamo Kid ' and veteran of 79 tests - will work with the company on the profile of the Philips campaign among its trade customers. As well, Jones will be helping implement its activity programme through involvement in consumer promotions, at-game entertainment and store visits.

Scott Wright, Philips marketing manager, says the company is committed to helping bring the All Blacks ' early season internationals and Tri Nations tests to the forefront over the course of the winter. " The All Blacks are the biggest property in New Zealand sport and the Philips Series is the only chance for New Zealanders to see them on home soil this year with the Rugby World Cup in Australia. We ' re thrilled to do our bit to ensure rugby-loving Kiwis enjoy seeing their team play against the best opposition in the world. "

Philips is running a major nationwide campaign under the theme " Surround Yourself with the All Blacks " , showing consumers that the only way to experience the All Blacks if you can ' t be at the game is with Philips Widescreen Home Cinema.

A nationwide consumer promotion to go to the 2004 Bledisloe Cup in Sydney, hosted by Ian Jones, will run throughout June, July and August.