Bath’s main sponsor, Helphire, has ended a three-season deal with the club. The locally based accident assistance firm had been the main shirt sponsor at the club since 2006. They recently announced they would not be renewing their sponsorship at the end of the season. The news comes as Helphire, which has seen its profits fall by more than £18 million over the last six months, is preparing to make more than 300 people redundant.
The firm’s chief executive, Mark Adams, is due to step down later this month after just six months at the helm and he said (quote) We have very much enjoyed our time as main sponsors of Bath Rugby, one of the most famous clubs in world rugby. However, after very careful consideration we have decided not to extend our sponsorship at the end of this season. Whilst this will be a disappointment to many, our decision not to renew will come as no surprise in light of the current commercial environment in which we find ourselves. We do, however, anticipate continuing to have a close working relationship with Bath Rugby in many other areas. (end quote)
Bath Rugby chief executive Bob Calleja said:(quote) We understand Helphire’s decision and would like to thank them for their great support over the last three years as main sponsor. Although sorry to lose them as main sponsor we look forward to continuing the association between Helphire and Bath Rugby into next season and beyond.(end quote)
The club is to name the new main sponsor at a press conference on Wednesday.
