Corporate America Strikes Again
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by user Joebook
In another attempt to turn the United States into one large billboard, the Chicago White Sox have agreed to a deal with the 7-Eleven convenience store chain, which calls for all White Sox weeknight home games to begin at 7:11pm.
Margaret Chabris, a spokeswoman for 7-Eleven, said the company has been trying to develop sponsorships with other teams and entertainment venues. The Chicago area was targeted because of its more than 180 7-Eleven stores.
"Every time the media announces the game's start time it will be a gentle reminder of our sponsorship," Chabris said.
First, they sold the stadium naming rights to U.S. Cellular, nullifying a century old tradition by using the name of Mr. Charles Comiskey. Now, they sell the starting time to the games? Will MLB get a cut of this because they'll have to adjust the schedules of every team that plays the White Sox?
Maybe I'm old-fashioned, but I liked sports better when the stadiums were named after founders and important causes, and the teams were worth more than the players. Does anyone know how many of the stadiums are named after corporate sponsors? And who has had multiple names? Enron went up in smoke, Bank One was bought by Chase, etc.
Thank god the Bears decided to keep the Soldier Field name...
source
espn.com
associated press
