Posted 3rd May 2023
SMP Europe is proud to be an official partner of the IIHF World Championship Division 1A, held in Nottingham from the 29th April to the 5th May 2023. The tournament features six teams – Great Britain (who SMP Europe are also a main sponsor), Italy, Poland, Lithuania, Korea, and Romania – vying for promotion to next year’s top level IIHF World Championship held in Czechia in 2024. As a family-owned business, SMP Europe is honoured to not only support the national team, but also an international sporting event of this magnitude.
The tournament provides a unique opportunity for SMP Europe to increase its global exposure and brand recognition. With advertising boards around the ice rink, featuring the company and it’s Intermotor and Lucas brands, full branding on the two Zamboni’s for ice resurfacing, whilst also providing support in the organization of tournament volunteers. SMP Europe’s involvement in the event is evident throughout. This high level of visibility ensures that the company’s name and logo are seen by thousands of hockey fans, both in Nottingham but also around the world through TV and digital tournament media.
In addition to this year’s tournament sponsorship, SMP Europe’s continued support of the Great Britain team included the design and development of a special edition GB Legacy jersey. These jerseys were worn by the players during their warm-up games against Latvia and Hungary before the tournament, and were put on sale at the beginning of the event. All profits from sales have been added to the company’s fundraising for Breast Cancer charities. This initiative has assisted in pushing the total raised from the partnership so far to over £20,000
Managing Director of SMP Europe, Ross Toomey said: “The IIHF World Championship Division 1A is a highly anticipated event. The tournament provides an opportunity for teams from different countries to come together and compete for a chance to advance to the top level of international ice hockey. SMP Europe’s partnership with the IIHF World Championship Division 1A reinforces the company’s commitment to supporting the sport of hockey and the communities it serves. As a family-owned business, SMP Europe takes pride in its involvement in the event and its support of the Great Britain teams. The company’s efforts to promote the sport and give back to the community reflect its values and commitment to making a positive impact.”
SMP Europe looks forward to continuing its involvement with Great Britain Ice Hockey and supporting the growth of the sport both in at home and internationally. The company is honoured to be representing the automotive aftermarket on a global stage, showcasing the scale of the industry to an international audience.
