Rogers Communications has planted a prominent flag in the heartland of major rival Telus by taking over the naming rights for the home of the Vancouver Canucks.
The telecommunications giant and Canucks Sports & Entertainment announced a 10-year deal giving Rogers the arena naming and telecommunications sponsorship rights.
Known as GM Place since 1995, the home rink of the Canucks will now be known as Rogers Arena. According to the Globe and Mail, Telus had also vied for the naming rights against its Toronto-based rival.
A release announcing the deal said the sponsorship will see the Rogers brand placed in-ice, in-building and on rink-board signage, on Canucks.com, through 300-level concourse branding, as well as in-game features, interactive hockey-themed concourse displays and mobile applications.
Rogers will also work with the Canucks to “explore new and innovative ways to use wireless technology to engage fans anytime, anyplace.”
“This is an important strategic alliance and we’re thrilled to partner with an outstanding organization like the Canucks,” said Nadir Mohamed, president and CEO, Rogers Communications. “B.C. is a critical market for Rogers and this announcement further enhances our investment in the province and builds on our powerful sports legacy.”
Rogers owns and operates the Toronto Blue Jays, the team’s homefield Rogers Centre and Rogers Sportsnet.
