Co-op to end cup sponsorship

28 September 2010 17:30

The Co-operative Insurance have announced they will not be renewing their sponsorship of the Scottish Football League's flagship cup competition.

The decision comes less than a week after SFL chief executive David Longmuir urged clubs to show more respect for the tournament sponsors after four teams failed to send representatives to the Co-operative Insurance Cup quarter-final draw at Hampden.

A statement released said: "The Co-operative Insurance sponsorship of the Scottish League Cup has been extremely successful over the last 12 seasons and has played an important role in our marketing strategy. Our current sponsorship deal with The Scottish Football League ends after this season's cup final on Sunday March 20, 2011 and will not be renewed."

The statement continued: "We would like to thank The Scottish Football League, the SFL and SPL clubs, the Scottish sports media and the many thousands of football fans who regularly attend games for their support over the last 12 years."

The Co-op have reportedly put £15million into Scottish football over the last 12 years and the loss of revenue will come as a blow to many clubs who are already struggling financially.

Longmuir commented: "Obviously I'm disappointed that The Co-operative Insurance sponsorship will end but I fully understand and accept the decision.

"The company has always been an active and involved partner in what has been a highly successful sponsorship which has allowed us not only to raise the profile of the competition but also that of Scottish football.

"The current contract ends after this season's final and we will now be working to secure a new sponsor for the tournament.

"There's no doubt after the excitement of last week's round three games, the cup offers a great promotional platform at the heart of Scottish football.

"As a strong sponsor of Scottish football, Co-operative Insurance will be missed and I wish them every success in the future."

Source: PA