Prior to their first official game of 2024, the Wests Tigers had been dealt a serious blow when a big sponsor quit the team over “disrespectful” behaviour.
The Tigers’ back-of-the-jersey and sleeve sponsor, FAB Industrial Logistics, a company that specialises in import and export, would no longer be supported, News Corp. announced over the weekend.
The business gave the team $800,000 to hold those spots, but it has now withdrew its support after interim CEO Shane Richardson suggested that Allied Express, a direct rival of FAB Industrial Logistics, be included on the Tigers’ uniform as well.
Neil Fabry, managing director of FAB Industrial Logistics, “blew up about it,” according to Phil Rothfield on Sky Sports Radio’s Big Sports Breakfast, so it was a kick in the stomach for him.
It’s been a difficult few years for the club, but I invested more money last year—my family’s money—when the club was having trouble, Fabry said to News Corp following his announcement to the Tigers on Friday that he was ending his sponsorship.
I was informed that they also intended to put one of my rivals on the shirt when I sat down with Shane Richardson.
If you love the club, you’ll let it happen,” he told me.
I apologise, but this is not how I’m going to be handled.
It was really impolite.
According to my contract, I’m the only one in my industry. I told Richardson, “There’s no way you can use a competitor.” Take me off and jam it up your ass if you put them on. I refuse to participate in it and I refuse to be told what to do.
When (previous CEO) Justin Pascoe was here, none of this occurred.
I still adore the club, but I don’t get along with the management.
When News Corp contacted Richardson for comment, he stated that the Tigers were prepared to honour Fabry’s desires.
“We inquired about adding a different sponsor to the strip, but he stated there would be a conflict. We thus assured him that we would not. Richardson stated, “He is aware of that.
Fabry has achieved remarkable success as an entrepreneur and has been selected Australian Young Entrepreneur of the Year in manufacturing, wholesale, and distribution for 2023. FAB Industrial Logistics is a family-owned business.
This comes after Rothfield expressed his “strong doubts” that Bryden’s Lawyers, another significant sponsor of the Tigers, will stay involved with the team after this season given the departure of previous club chairman Lee Hagipantelis.
“They need to improve their roster and their commercial department as a whole because you can’t risk losing your two biggest sponsors on the backs of two wooden spoons,” the speaker stated.
Even in the best of circumstances, getting corporate sponsorship may be somewhat challenging.
