One of the South West’s leading breweries has extended its involvement with English Premiership rugby for the next 5 years.
Building on a strong relationship that pre-dates their promotion to top flight rugby in 2010, Exeter Chiefs Rugby Club and long-time sponsor Otter Brewery have agreed new terms as both businesses continue to grow and the sport’s popularity is at all-time high following the Rugby World Cup in Japan.
Premiership Champions in the 2016/17 season and four-time finalists, Exeter Chiefs, based at Sandy Park stadium, pride themselves on their support and integration into the local economy. Chief Executive Tony Rowe OBE created the Exeter Foundation in 2011 which in turn supports 20 local charities. Over £200,000 was donated in 2018/19 with more than £1 million raised since inception.
With Otter Bitter the official cask beer for match days being served in the Wigwam and Undercroft bars, the brewery is also a kit sponsor with their logo appearing on player’s shorts. On the pitch, the half-time ‘Otter Challenge’ has become a stadium tradition with the format evolving year on year to keep things fresh.
Patrick McCaig from Otter Brewery commented: “Rugby is definitely in our veins and the relationship that we’ve fostered with the Chiefs is one we cherish. Thirsty fans coming to Sandy Park are not only guaranteed a rousing day out watching some of the countries best players but also the chance to take on ‘Derek the Otter’ and an obstacle course of sorts at half time! More than this though, the club is a real force for good around Devon and raises tens of thousands every year via its Foundation for local charities – we’re pleased to play a part in that too as well as encouraging the next generation of players.”
Tony Rowe OBE, Chairman & Chief Executive of Exeter Rugby Club, added: “We’re delighted that we are able to extend our long-standing partnership with Otter Brewery. Together we have over the years forged a fantastic and winning formula when it comes to providing entertainment and beer at Sandy Park. We look forward to building on that over the next five years and thank Otter Brewery for their continued support towards the Chiefs and, of course, the Exeter Chiefs Foundation.”
For more information on Exeter Chiefs please visit: www.exeterchiefs.co.uk
For more information on Otter Brewery please visit: www.otterbrewery.com