Footy can play a key role in bringing people together. Whether it’s friends heading to the game, families gathering around the TV or clients networking during half-time – footy can break down barriers.
Essendon has faced its challenges on the commercial front in recent seasons but business to business sales have been a key reason the club has been able to maintain a strong financial position.
Kia and adidas have played an important role in this and through their Essendon ties, the two organisations have commenced a partnership of their own.
The relationship was born out of a commercial need for sales staff fleet cars. adidas has now purchased seven vehicles from Kia with the view to have all sales staff in Kias within the next six months.
“Essendon and FleetPartners introduced Kia to adidas through 2015,” Regional Fleet Sales Manager Southern Peter Brown said.
“After some vehicle evaluations the new Sportage SLi with its drive and strong list of standard features was well received by the drivers.”
Just as importantly, FleetPartners was able to present a strong Total Cost of Ownership package to impress Brian Maher, The Director of Finance.
“To sum it up, the drivers liked the cars and Brian liked the numbers,” Brown said.
FleetPartners Business Development Manager, Gilchrist Clendinnen who worked with adidas on the purchase of the vehicles said, “FleetPartners worked closely with adidas to find a fleet solution that would be cost effective without compromising driver satisfaction. The Kia Sportage was one of a few options presented to adidas based on their specific ‘fit for purpose’ requirements that delivers great value and a compelling total cost of ownership solution.”
Essendon has also introduced Kia to Reece Plumbing and Melbourne Airport, with those companies purchasing a total of more than 50 cars over the past year.
“By working extremely closely with all of our commercial partners and the broader EFC business network, B2B sales can produce mutually beneficial business outcomes for all parties, and this is a key focus for us in delivering our partners a compelling return on their investment with the club,” said Brenton Humphreys, EFC General Manager - Commercial Operations.
