Unilever and Saru sign deal

Network Reporter

DURBAN-headquatered global consumer goods giants Unilever South Africa has gone green by signing up as associate sponsor to the Springbok team ahead of next month’s Rugby World Cup.

The signing of the agreement was celebrated by Springbok captain John Smit and Unilever South Africa chairman Marijn van Tiggelen recently with the planting of an umzimbeet tree (Millettia grandis) in the landscaped gardens of Unilever’s head office in La Lucia Ridge, north of the city centre.

The sponsorship deal will see Unilever’s Shield brand becoming the official deodorant of the Springboks, while Vaseline is the official skincare of the Springboks.

“Unilever has been in South Africa for more than 100 years and we are proud to show our support for the Springboks,” said Van Tiggelen.

“This sponsorship is also in line with Unilever’s target of doubling its business while reducing its environmental impact,” he said.

Saru deputy president Mark Alexander said: “Unilever is a household company name in South Africa and their agreement with Saru will give us access to an enormous footprint across the country.

“This year, we have signed a few significant sponsorship agreements for the Springboks and the addition of an established company such as Unilever shows us that the Springbok brand is very healthy.”

Van Tiggelen said: “Unilever is committed to meeting the needs of its consumers. The company’s vision is to create a better future in which people can improve their quality of life without increasing their environmental footprint.

“To this end, Unilever launched the Unilever Sustainable Living Plan in 2010. Unilever’s commitment to the environment is echoed by Saru,” he said.