In this article...
- Totally Wicked ends partnership with Blackburn Rovers Footbal Club as Front of Shirt sponsors after six seasons.
- We are still committed to supporting the local community via a variety of projects
- We are still committed to our mission of harm reduction by helping smokers make the switch
For six successful seasons, Totally Wicked has proudly served as the principal sponsor of Blackburn Rovers Football Club. This partnership has been more than just a business arrangement; it is a relationship deeply rooted in the shared history and community of Blackburn, Lancashire.
Together, we have demonstrated how local businesses and sports clubs can collaborate to create a lasting impact, driven by common values and a strong commitment to the community.
Blackburn Rovers and Totally Wicked: A Partnership Built on Shared Values
The relationship between Totally Wicked and Blackburn Rovers has always been about more than just logos on shirts, or banners in a stadium. It has been about a shared vision for the community of Blackburn. Both our business and the football club are deeply invested in the local area, supporting initiatives that benefit the residents and create a sense of unity and pride.
From community outreach programmes to local sponsorships, our partnership has consistently aimed to give back to the community that has supported us. This mutual investment in Blackburn has helped both Totally Wicked and Blackburn Rovers build a strong, loyal following that extends beyond just business or sport, yet always acknowledged the responsibility around responsible awareness and education.
Positive Societal Impact of Vaping
In a landscape where sponsorships from alcohol and gambling brands are common, we believe our partnership is distinct in bringing genuine positive societal contributions. While the commercial benefits of such other sponsorships are undeniable, their societal impacts often raise questions. In contrast, Totally Wicked has focused on promoting vaping as a safer alternative for adult smokers, helping many transition away from traditional cigarettes and ultimately quit smoking.
Vaping has been recognised as a significant tool in harm reduction by numerous well respected health bodies.[i] By supporting adult smokers in making the switch, we have played a crucial role in improving public health. No alcohol or gambling brand can claim such a positive societal benefit from their products.
Addressing Unjustified Criticisms
Despite the clear benefits of our products and the ethical stance of our business, our association with Blackburn Rovers has not been without controversy. In recent years, some critics have unfairly accused us of using the sponsorship to appeal to young people. We want to set the record straight: this has never been our intention nor is there any evidence to suggest it has been a consequence of our sponsorship. Our focus has always been on supporting adult smokers in their journey to a healthier lifestyle.
The criticism directed at our partnership, despite the positive societal gains, is both tiresome and unjustified. It saddens us that after 16 years of dedicated work in harm reduction and raising awareness about the benefits of vaping, there is still significant misunderstanding and misplaced criticism surrounding vaping.
We remain steadfast in our mission and will continue to advocate for the benefits of vaping for adult smokers.
Concluding a Successful Partnership
As our current contract with Blackburn Rovers comes to an end, we have mutually decided to conclude our partnership. This decision comes with heavy hearts, as our journey together has been filled with positive memories and significant achievements.
We are incredibly proud of what we have accomplished together and wish Blackburn Rovers all the success in their future endeavours.
Looking to the Future
While our formal partnership with Blackburn Rovers is ending, Totally Wicked's commitment to the community and our mission of harm reduction remains as strong as ever. We will continue to support adult smokers in their transition to a safer way of consuming nicotine and promote the benefits of vaping.
Our time with Blackburn Rovers has been a testament to the power of local partnerships. It has shown how businesses and sports clubs can work together to create a positive impact that extends beyond commercial interests. As we move forward, we will carry the lessons and experiences from this partnership with us, continuing to make a difference in our community and beyond.
Totally Wicked remains dedicated to contributing to a healthier society, one smoker at a time. Our journey is far from over, and we look forward to new opportunities to support and uplift our community.
Thank you, Blackburn Rovers, for an incredible six seasons. Here’s to a future filled with continued success.
References:
[i] https://www.nhs.uk/better-health/quit-smoking/vaping-to-quit-smoking/
