Laithwaites partners with Sky Sports to sponsor Lions Fan Van

Home delivery wine retailer Laithwaites has partnered with Sky Sports to sponsor the broadcaster’s ‘Fan Van’ for the British & Irish Lions rugby tour of South Africa. With the games being played behind closed doors and supporters unable to travel to South Africa, Sky Sports’ roving presenter Scott Quinnell and his producers “Legs” and “Bear” will be travelling the length and breadth of the UK to hear the stories of fans cheering on the touring side from home. The partnership sees Laithwaites sponsor Sky Sports’ daily content across its digital and social channels.

The Fan Van, also known as the ‘Quinnebago’ has a new fresh look, wrapped in Sky Sports and Laithwaites livery, as Quinnell started his journey last Friday at Henry Laithwaite’s Harrow & Hope vineyard in Marlow before heading down to Devon and Cornwall, then travelling north to Scotland, meeting Lions legends along the way. From Scotland, the van will then head to Northern Ireland, before finishing in Cardiff ahead of the third Test Match.

As well as sponsoring the Fan Van’s digital and social content, Laithwaites will also be delivering several unique tasting experiences for Quinnell and his former teammates after a long day on the road. They will also be rewarding fans along the way with a number of prize bundles, including some of their leading South African wines.

“We’re really excited to be working with Sky Sports to support the Fan Van,” said Laithwaites Marketing Director, Rupert Elwood. “Our founder Tony Laithwaite started the business from a van, so I’m sure he’ll be on hand to offer his support to Scott. It’s a huge shame fans are unable travel to South Africa, but we are looking to bring a taste of the country to fans supporting the Lions at home on Sky Sports. We are also supporting our incredible South African wine growers, who are experiencing unprecedented challenges following the recent announcement of the fourth alcohol ban as a result of the pandemic.”