Sharpie Helping to Make Memories Permanent at Walt Disney World Resort

OAK BROOK, Ill. (PRNewswire) – Walt Disney World Co. and Sharpie, a division of Sanford LP, a Newell Rubbermaid company, announced a strategic alliance that joins Sharpie markers with the magic of the Walt Disney World Resort. Sharpie's agreement with Walt Disney World Co. includes marketing and pro-motional rights, sponsorship of several popular Walt Disney World Resort events and experiences, and on-site promotional presence for the Sharpie marker brand at the Walt Disney World Resort near Orlando, Fla. "Sharpie is a natural fit for Walt Disney World Resort given the millions of autograph seekers who frequent the resort each year," said Rory Leyden, president of Sanford North America, Sharpie's parent company. As part of the agreement, Sharpie will become the title sponsor of the resort's Kidcot Fun Stops at Epcot theme park, where craftspeople from around the world teach children how to create one-of-a-kind face masks and enjoy arts and crafts. Sharpie also becomes the title sponsor for Walt Disney World Resort's annual art event, "Festival of the Masters." In addition, Sharpie joins as a participating sponsor for well-known, annual events such as the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend, ESPN The Weekend, ABC Super Soap Weekend, the FUNAI Golf Classic on the PGA TOUR, Grad Nite, and Disney's Magic Music Days. Sharpie markers also will enjoy greater visibility with key branding and displays at Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex. Consumer promotions in connection with the partnership are in development and will include the chance to win a Walt Disney World Resort vacation package and a full complement of Sharpie products.