Papa John's inks first UK sports sponsorship

Papa John's has signed an agreement to become an official sponsor of The Football League in the Unit…

Papa John's has signed an agreement to become an official sponsor of The Football League in the United Kingdom. The agreement is the first UK sport sponsorship for Papa John's, which is the Official Pizza Sponsor of the National Football League.

The deal gives Papa John’s exclusive rights to The Football League’s marks, and its digital assets such as online banners, dedicated e-mails to league and club fans, and exclusive Facebook and Twitter promotions.

“Papa John’s is the recognized leader in quality, which extends from our superior pizza to our leading-quality partners,” said John Schnatter, Papa John’s founder, chairman and CEO. “Much like the NFL in the US, The Football League is a premier brand in the UK, and we are delighted to be associated with the league and its passionate fans.”

The Football League was formed in 1888 by 12 founder members. It is the largest single body of professional clubs in European football and administers and regulates the Capital One Cup and Johnstone’s Paint Trophy, as well as reserve and youth football.

“This is a partnership that will be really popular with fans,” said Richard Heaselgrave, The Football League’s chief commercial officer. “Like our clubs, Papa John’s restaurants are located in towns and cities across the country and they will reach out to supporters with a range of promotions and custom offers.”