JANUARY 12, 2007 – La Mirada, CA– As the announcement of David Beckham’s move to the Los Angeles Galaxy resonated through the sports and business media, it was particularly well-received at Makita USA. Beckham, the world’s most recognized soccer player and arguably one of the most high-profile athletes in the world, is expected to increase the visibility of Major League Soccer in the U.S. And as an official sponsor of all 13 Major League Soccer teams, Makita is happy to see the news of Beckham’s signing at the top of the sports headlines.
“In a sports-oriented country like the USA, an adrenaline infusion like David Beckham will certainly launch the sport to a higher level,” said Xavier Turpin, Marketing Manager, Emerging Markets at Makita USA. “If it isn’t for his renowned ability to bend the ball on the field, then it will be for his popularity, good looks, and charisma. The profile of the game in the US will be increased with Beckham on the field.”
Since becoming an MLS sponsor, Makita has received millions of audience impressions through MLS sponsorship activities – from stadium signage and on-site promotions to game tickets for top customers. In the 2007 season, the league will have an unprecedented amount of games televised on English and Spanish networks, including ESPN2, ABC, and Univision.
“With this increased media coverage, as well as the signing of one of the game’s biggest stars, the value of Makita’s MLS sponsorship will increase, as well,” Turpin said.
In addition to its sponsorship of MLS, Makita is also a sponsor of the Mexican National Soccer League. This sponsorship activity has allowed the company to extend its marketing reach.
“We use the excitement of soccer as an effective vehicle to connect with power tool end users,” Turpin said. “We’ve been quite happy with the results, but the news of Beckham’s signing makes our participation in the sport look even better.”
About Makita USA
Makita USA, Inc. is a leading manufacturer of over 450 professional, industrial quality power tools and has over 5,000 industrial accessories. Makita USA, Inc.’s home office is located in La Mirada, California and operates an extensive distribution network located throughout the U.S. For more information, please contact us at 1-800-4-MAKITA (1-800-462-5482) or visit the website at makitatools.com.