Cooper Lighting Joins Square D Racing Team

HAMPTON, Ga., (Nov. 19, 1999) - Building the brand. Showcasing the product. Establishing relationships and solidifying new ones. These are the reasons why companies sponsor teams in the NASCAR Winston Cup Series. It is also for these reasons why Cooper Lighting, one of the world's largest lighting fixture manufacturers, has teamed-up with Square D to become a major associate sponsor on the No. 55 Chevrolet of Andy Petree Racing and driver Kenny Wallace beginning with the 2000 Winston Cup season. "This is the perfect avenue for Cooper Lighting to build corporate brand awareness and increase sales," said Mike Bauer, vice president of sales, Cooper Lighting. "When it comes to sports marketing, NASCAR is the place to be. Between the new television package, the loyalty of NASCAR fans and the personality of Kenny Wallace, this is our opportunity to make an impact in this sport and in our business." "Cooper Lighting is a natural partner of Square D," said Ralph Harris, director of marketing, Square D. "They're a great fit as an associate sponsor, as our customers, markets and distribution channels overlap. These similarities and the strong reputations of Square D and Cooper Lighting mean both brands will profit from this partnership. Having Cooper Lighting join Square D as a NASCAR sponsor is an excellent way to strengthen our mutual relationships with customers." Since 1995, Square D has been a NASCAR sponsor with Wallace as their point-man. The 96-year-old maker of electrical equipment and components first became an associate sponsor in the NASCAR Busch Series, Grand National Division with FILMAR Racing. When FILMAR and Wallace made the jump into the Winston Cup waters full-time in 1996, so too did Square D. After three years with FILMAR, Square D and Wallace joined the multi-car team of Andy Petree Racing for the 1999 season. As a result, Wallace is en route to having a career-year, with three top-five finishes including a career-best second-place finish at Loudon (N.H.) in the July Winston Cup event. He has also garnered five top-10 finishes, entry into the Winston No Bull 5 by virtue of his fifth-place finish at Talladega (Ala.) in October, and the possibility of earning his career-best point finish since placing 23rd in his rookie year in 1993. The agreement between Square D and Cooper Lighting is a two-year deal, with Cooper Lighting's logos being implemented into the design of the car (quarterpanels and upper TV panel only), uniforms and equipment of the No. 55 team. Cooper Lighting will also be participating in an extensive hospitality program, allowing customers to enjoy the full NASCAR experience at all 34 races.