The United States Olympic Committee on Wednesday announced that J.M. Smucker Co. of Orrville has become a sponsor of the 2014 and 2016 Olympic Games and Paralympics for competitions in Sochi, Russia; and Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
The news announcement from the U.S. Olympic Committee headquarters in Colorado Springs, Colo., said four Smucker brands — Smucker’s, Folgers, Jif, and Smucker’s Uncrustables sandwiches — would be part of the campaign.
In a prepared statement, CEO Richard Smucker said:
“We have always taken great pride in the athletes that strive to represent the United States in the Olympic Games and are truly honored to have this opportunity to help support their dreams.”
“We’re proud to welcome The J.M. Smucker Co. and its acclaimed lineup of brands to the U.S. Olympic family and to our steadfast roster of USOC sponsors — the team behind the team,” said Scott Blackmun, chief executive officer of the USOC, in a statement.
USOC chief of marketing Lisa Baird told the Associated Press:
“This is the kind of market-leading brand we love.”
Financial details of the sponsorship were not disclosed.
Baird said the deal stemmed from a relationship Smucker has had with the U.S. Figure Skating organization.
The Associated Press report said Smucker will combine with Procter & Gamble, Coca-Cola, Budweiser and Kellogg’s in promotions.
In addition to financial support, all Smucker participating brands will provide athletes and coaches at the U.S. Olympic Training Centers and other team venues with food products.
The committee has training centers in Chula Vista, Calif., Colorado Springs; and Lake Placid, N.Y., along with centers at the Games.
Smucker is developing plans around the 2014 Olympic Winter Games, the company said. No further information was immediately available.