BASS today announced that Bass
Pro Shops will build on
the marketing alliance formed last year by assuming title sponsorship of
the Bassmaster Opens in 2010-2011. With the agreement, final-day
weigh-ins of select Bassmaster Open events will be held at Bass Pro
Shops stores.
As part of the multiple-year collaboration, Bass Pro
Shops will also have a presence at the 2011 Bassmaster Classic and all
2010-2011 Bassmaster Opens and Bassmaster Elite Series events. The
relationship will allow each industry-leading company to integrate both
brands across their respective platforms.
"We look forward to
continuing our relationship with the premier bass fishing organization
in America and the benefits it brings to our loyal customers," said
Johnny Morris, Bass Pro Shops founder.
The agreement also calls
for joint marketing programs, including the continued opportunity for
BASS members to earn Bass Pro rewards points. Additionally, Bass Pro
Shops will serve as the official apparel provider of the Bassmaster
Elite Series marshal program and conduct Bassmaster University seminars
at Bass Pro Shops' various retail events.
As the official apparel
provider, Bass Pro will provide Marshals with apparel and a $25 gift
card for all participants. The Marshal program provides BASS members the
opportunity to ride along with Elite Series pros for a full day of
tournament fishing from the best seat in the house.
"We recognize
and appreciate the significant brand power that Bass Pro Shops has in
the industry," said Tom Ricks, vice president and general manager, BASS.
"Fishing fans will continue to benefit from this growing relationship."
Bass
Pro Shops is associated with a number of Bassmaster Elite Series
anglers including Kevin VanDam of Kalamazoo, Mich., and Rick Clunn of
Ava, Mo., each former winners of both the Toyota Tundra Bassmaster
Angler of the Year award and the Bassmaster Classic.