Sponsors and endorsements

[Randy]

Some companies spend a lot of money sponsoring sports.

Is this an effective way of advertising?

When an athlete endorses a product, are you more likely to want that product?

 

[Nebulous]

I'd say its effective because its the only place where the ads will be seen. People fast forward through commercials or pay extra for ad-free tv services, but they cannot NOT see the ads plastered on the walls of the arena where the sport is being played.

If an athlete endorses a product will I be more likely to buy it? No.

 

[PGen98]

It's a good way to advertise because it ensures a lot of eyes on the logo/brand, but there are risks, too. Lots of betting companies and loan companies get in on the act in the UK, and now some clubs (like my hometown Bolton Wanderers) are passing on lucrative sponsorships with those companies to avoid the stigma of promoting betting or predatory loans. It's up to the team and their level of greed as to what sponsorships they'll take, but more and more are looking for more appropriate, ethical sponsors, and that's a great thing!