The Fruitist secures sponsorship deal with DC United

International berry brand The Fruitist has scored a major marketing goal after it secured a multi-year sponsorship deal with Major League Soccer team DC United.

As a result, the supplier’s name will be printed on the right sleeve of the team’s home and away shirts from the start of the season on 24 February. It will also enjoy special status as official snack provider to the squad and also its summer camps.

The agreement represents a major coup for The Fruitist, which has recently made a name for itself in the fresh berry category with the backing of its joint venture partners Agrovision Corp and Berries Paradise.

The marketer has focused its strategy on the delivery of premium-quality berries year round. These include its exclusive Jumbo blueberries, as well as licensed varieties of raspberry and blackberry.

“We are beyond proud to be named the official snack sponsors for DC United,” said Scott Albertson, president of The Fruitist. “For too long, soccer fans of all ages have craved a better-for-you choice at the stadium. We are excited to introduce a deliciously good-for-you, premium snack that appeals to the whole family, and delivers on taste, aroma and crunch – truly a better berry.

Albertson added: “Kids love that The Fruitist berries taste great and have a snappy pop, while parents love our berries’ consistency, convenience and nutritious benefits. We look forward to delivering on this health and flavour promise to the fans.”

The Fruitist will also benefit from what the club describes as “prominent branding” at Audi Field, its home stadium in Washington DC, and exposure across the club’s social and digital media channels.

“DC United are proud to welcome The Fruitist as our official sleeve patch partner and exclusive snack partner for the team,” commented Danita Johnson, DC United President of Operations. “Bringing health and wellness to the forefront of our community was an important priority for the club and our partnership with The Fruitist will allow us to best serve our team and the youth at DC United Summer Camps.”

She added: “I want to thank our ownership group for their continued support and Jeff Ajluni, our senior VP of partnerships, for his work to make this partnership come to life. We look forward to welcoming The Fruitist to the Black-and-Red family.”

DC United counts among its players former Premier League football stars Christian Benteke and Mateusz Klich. Previous star players include Wayne Rooney, Jaime Moreno, John Harkes and Ryan Nelsen.