BassFan has been told by several sources over the past week that FLW is about to announce a sponsorship deal with a major beer-maker. That would mark a big departure from the organization's previous policy, which was to allow no alcohol or tobacco signage to be displayed at its events.
FLW added alcoholic beverages to its lengthy list of "exclusive categories" prior to the 2011 season, meaning that anglers cannot display logos that compete with FLW-affiliated brands on days 3 and 4 (the TV days) of Tour events. Until now, there were no reports of a deal in that category being imminent.
When asked about the rampant scuttlebutt regarding the deal, FLW communications director Chad Gay responded, "I can't speculate on potential sponsorships."
Tobacco advertising is still prohibited by the organization in any form.
