Safeway/Albertsons to Become Beavers’ “Official Grocer”; Increases Football Engagement

CORVALLIS, Ore. – Oregon State Athletics announced today a heightened, multi-year partnership with Safeway/Albertsons in advance of the 2017-18 collegiate academic year. The alliance designates Safeway/Albertsons as the “Official Grocer of OSU Athletics.”

Additionally, Safeway/Albertsons is committed to supporting several new initiatives to complement the grocer’s current Civil War sponsor integration across all sports. During football season, the grocer will back a new initiative entitled Veteran of the Game in which one veteran will be honored during each home game during the 2017 and 2018 football seasons. During men’s basketball season, Safeway/Albertsons will host a Great Baby Race promotion at halftime of a select game featuring Beaver babies and their parents.

“On behalf of all of us with Safeway/Albertsons and our vendors, we’re very excited to become the Official Grocer of Oregon State Athletics,” said Director of Marketing Jessica Wong. “Beaver Nation is a very loyal and strong fan base that we want to partner with. Our goal is to enhance the excitement of game day on the Oregon State campus and support the outstanding student-athletes who represent the University.”

Wong added, “Each week throughout the football season, we’ll offer Beaver fans exclusive prizes that will include flyaway trips to away games, VIP tickets, Beaver gear and much more. We’re also the Tailgating Headquarters for the Beavers, so we’ll have displays throughout our stores for all of your tailgating needs. Currently, we’re collaborating with OSU Athletics to bring fans fun promotions throughout each sport!”

All aspects of the comprehensive relationship with Safeway/Albertsons is managed by Learfield’s Beaver Sports Properties, Oregon State Athletics’ multimedia rights holder. Safeway/Albertsons has been a corporate partner for two years, with the 2017-18 season marking the start of its enhanced agreement.

“We’re excited to enter into this partnership with a corporate sponsor possessing unique Pacific Northwest origins that our fans have come to trust,” OSU Vice President/Director of Athletics Scott Barnes said. “Safeway/Albertsons’ commitment to excellence aligns with the goals the young men and women who represent Beaver Nation on the fields and courts of play strive for every day. In addition, this strategic partnership will enhance the fan experience for Beaver Nation throughout the week and into game day.”

“We couldn’t be more excited to support the Beavers, our home town team!” stated Safeway/Albertsons Portland Division President Greg McNiff.