Panasonic nets three-year tennis deal

Panasonic Australia has signed a three-year sponsorship agreement with Tennis Australia, commencing with the Australian Open in January 2010.

The agreement encompasses a number of tournaments including the Medibank International Sydney, the Brisbane International and the Australian Open - the so-called grand slam of Asia-Pacific.

Panasonic Australia will be the official TV, camera and air-conditioning sponsor of Tennis Australia and the Australian Open.

The company's LUMIX digital still cameras, VIERA TVs and inverter air-conditioning systems will be aligned with Tennis Australia's summer schedule.

Marketing and promotional opportunities will include on-court signage and inclusion in the official Australian Open program. Panasonic TVCs will be displayed on screens around the venue as well as other activities to be announced in the lead-up to the event.

Panasonic Australia managing director Steve Rust said: "We are thrilled to sponsor Tennis Australia as the official TV and camera and air-conditioning partner. Tennis has a large, passionate following in Australia, and at the elite level the game enjoys both huge match attendance as well as large television and radio audiences."

LUMIX signage will be positioned in the centre court Rod Laver Arena, Margaret Court Arena and the Hisense Arena, while LUMIX advertising will feature in the official Australian Open program.

Panasonic will also provide around 770 VIERA plasma and LCD TVs across Australian Open venues for live viewing of the games, including 250 in the media room.

Panasonic?s other sports sponsorships include deals with the AFL and Australian Rugby Union.

Tennis Australia CEO Steve Wood said: "We are excited to have Panasonic committing to what will be an enduring and successful relationship."