Philadelphia Phillies' Bryce Harper collaborated with Wawa to create special Under Armour cleats inspired by his favorite hoagie, unveiled during the annual HoagieFest. Meanwhile, a McDonald's in Brighton, Mass., displayed a congratulatory message for Celtics' Jayson Tatum, acknowledging him as a valued customer.
In a unique blend of sports and local business endorsements, two major athletes have made headlines with their favorite food spots. Bryce Harper of the Philadelphia Phillies has teamed up with Wawa to launch a new line of cleats, while Jayson Tatum of the Boston Celtics received a special nod from a local McDonald's. These instances highlight the personal connections athletes have with brands and how these relationships are leveraged for mutual promotional benefits.
Philadelphia Phillies first baseman Bryce Harper has collaborated with the popular convenience store chain Wawa to release a special edition of Under Armour cleats. The design, inspired by Harper's love for Wawa, features a barcode that represents his favorite summer hoagie from the store. These cleats were showcased during a game against the D-backs, coinciding with the team's City Connect uniform night. The cleats not only highlight Harper's personal taste but also his connection to the local fanbase, who share his enthusiasm for Wawa. Under Armour plans to expand this collaboration by selling themed merchandise in Dick’s Sporting Goods stores and online starting in July.
In a heartwarming community gesture, a McDonald's in Brighton, Massachusetts, has publicly celebrated Boston Celtics forward Jayson Tatum. A message displayed under the iconic golden arches of the restaurant read, 'CONGRATS TO OUR CUSTOMER JAYSON TATUM,' acknowledging his frequent visits with his son. This personal acknowledgment not only highlights Tatum's regular presence at the restaurant but also reflects the strong ties between local businesses and community figures. Such endorsements enhance the relatability of athletes by showcasing their everyday habits and favorite hangouts.
The interactions between athletes and local businesses such as Wawa and McDonald's underscore a mutual benefit in leveraging personal preferences and local loyalty for brand promotion. These partnerships not only enhance the brands' visibility but also endear the athletes to their local communities by highlighting their everyday choices and preferences.
"The cleats are inspired by his love for Wawa." - Bryce Harper