CHARLOTTE, N.C., Feb. 27, 2006 (PRIMEZONE) -- Husqvarna, a global manufacturer of forest, lawn and garden power equipment for all applications, has reached a sponsorship agreement with Joe Gibbs Racing for the 2006 NASCAR(R) season.
The multi-car sponsorship further solidifies Husqvarna's commitment to racing: The company already serves as the Forest, Lawn & Garden Equipment of NASCAR, and it features a NASCAR branded chainsaw in its product catalog.
"NASCAR is a natural fit for Husqvarna," said David Zerfoss, president of Husqvarna North America. "Speed, power, handling and performance are attributes that define both organizations, and we share a commitment to excellence that has made Joe Gibbs Racing one of NASCAR's top performing teams, and Husqvarna one of the largest outdoor power equipment manufacturers in the world. We're proud to renew our relationship with Joe Gibbs Racing."
The contract includes primary sponsorship of Gibbs' number 18 car for three NASCAR Nextel Cup races. The blue, orange and white car will feature the Husqvarna logo on the hood, quarter panels and back sections. Husqvarna will also be listed on the car's decklid as well as the transporter and pit box throughout the 2006 season, and the uniform of driver J.J. Yeley will include the Husqvarna name.
Husqvarna's agreement extends into the Joe Gibbs Racing Busch Series team as well. Husqvarna will be the primary sponsor of the number 19 car for four races. Aric Almirola takes the wheel for three of those races.
"Husqvarna's employees and dealers really embody the teamwork and enthusiasm it takes to succeed, whether it's in the marketplace or on the track," said J.D. Gibbs, president of Joe Gibbs Racing. "We're looking forward to an exciting season in 2006, especially with a nationally recognized brand like Husqvarna as part of our team."
The renewed partnership with Joe Gibbs Racing comes at an exciting time for Husqvarna. By mid-2006, Husqvarna's parent company in Sweden, Electrolux AB, will spin off its outdoor products unit into a new company, operating under the Husqvarna name. The outdoor products unit includes brands such as Weed-Eater, Jonsered and Poulan in addition to Husqvarna, and the new entity will become one of the world's largest outdoor power equipment companies.
Husqvarna has long relied on its network of more than 5,000 dealers nationwide to distribute its products, and its partnership with Joe Gibbs Racing provides another opportunity to build stronger relationships with key dealers. Husqvarna will utilize the Joe Gibbs Racing facility in Huntersville, NC throughout 2006 for dealer events, and will invite select dealers to Washington Redskins football games and pre-season training camp sessions, which are included as part of the sponsorship agreement.
About Husqvarna
Husqvarna, a member of the Electrolux Group, offers forest, lawn and garden power equipment for all applications. The company markets a complete line of chain saws, clearing saws, cut-off saws, and lawn and garden products, including riding and walk-behind mowers, yard and garden tractors, tillers, edgers, brushcutters, grass trimmers, back-pack and hand-held blowers, snow throwers, and commercial turf care equipment. For more information, visit Husqvarna's web site at www.husqvarna.com.
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