The Auto Channel
The Largest Independent Automotive Research Resource
The Largest Independent Automotive Research Resource
Official Website of the New Car Buyer

IRL Hires Renowned Firms to Help Spread Message

24 November 1998

INDIANAPOLIS - The Pep Boys Indy Racing League has retained award-winning international firms Wieden & Kennedy and Golin/Harris International to assist in advertising and public relations efforts for the league's new strategic marketing plan.

The league's strategic marketing plan aims to increase the growth, awareness and exposure of the league and its drivers with the public and sponsors. The multifaceted plan will incorporate advertising, marketing and promotional plans on many levels, including television, print, Internet, point-of-purchase and event site activities.

"We expect to step up significantly our sales, marketing and public relations effort in 1999 to increase the awareness of the league, our teams, our sponsors and our drivers," said Tony George, founder of the Pep Boys Indy Racing League. "We are very pleased to have Wieden & Kennedy and Golin/Harris joining our team. They are recognized nationally as among the very best in their fields, and we know they will be enthusiastic partners with us in taking the Indy Racing League to the next level."

Wieden & Kennedy, based in Portland, Ore., is one of the largest, independently owned advertising agencies with offices in New York, Amsterdam, London and Tokyo. A full-service, creatively-led communications company, Wieden & Kennedy has helped build some of the strongest global brands, including Nike, Microsoft, Coca-Cola, Miller and ESPN.

"Indy racing is one of America's greatest icons," said Ben Kline, director of account service for Wieden & Kennedy, Portland. "We look forward to marketing a brand so rich in tradition and heritage."

Golin/Harris International, founded in 1956, is a full-service public relations firm, providing professional counsel and quality programs to clients nationally and internationally. Golin/Harris, one of the Interpublic Group agencies, is based in Chicago with offices in Boston, Washington, D.C., New York, Atlanta, Houston, Dallas, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Seattle, London and Hong Kong. Golin/Harris clients include McDonald's Corporation, DaimlerChrysler, Texas Instruments, Michelin and Nintendo of America Inc.

"This is an exciting opportunity for us," said Golin/Harris president David Gilbert. "The Indy Racing League is one of the most prestigious organizations in motorsports, and we're pleased to be part of the team that will continue to build the IRL's reputation as the premier open-wheel oval racing series in the world."