Essentially helps Scottish Rugby to convert title partnership

EMC, one of the world’s leading IT companies, today announced that it is set to become the title partner of the EMC Autumn Tests which are due to start with Scotland against New Zealand on Saturday 13th November.

The partnership, brokered by Essentially and Logan Sports Marketing, will see EMC become a key partner to Scottish Rugby over the next 3 years; and will offer it access to brand benefits ranging from in-stadia signage, to tickets and hospitality across the season, as well as access to international players.

Rugby remains one of the most popular sports in the UK, and the EMC Autumn Test Series will see Scotland pit their wits against some of the biggest teams from across the Southern Hemisphere before the end of 2010: New Zealand (13th November), South Africa (20th November) and Samoa (27th November).

Speaking at the contract signing, Ross Fraser, EMC’s Country Manager for Scotland & Ireland, said: “EMC is proud to support the Autumn Tests, and we are delighted to be working with Scottish Rugby to promote what we expect will be some exciting and historic sporting occasions over the next three years.

“As an organisation we relate to the tenacity, commitment and sporting behaviour that we all associate with the Scottish rugby team and its illustrious southern hemisphere rivals – they are the same qualities that EMC strives to bring to its customers in the business world. This partnership also underscores our long-term commitment to the Scottish market, and to developing our already strong ties with our local customers and communities,” concluded Fraser.

Gordon McKie, Chief Executive of Scottish Rugby is delighted by the prospect of working with EMC: “We are hugely excited to welcome EMC on board as one of our key partners. They are truly a global brand; and have a proven track record in the world of business, and much like ourselves, they strive to be the best.

We are entering into exciting times for Scottish rugby with three great games against New Zealand, South Africa and Samoa in the forthcoming EMC Autumn Test Series before the RBS 6 Nations gets underway early the New Year. With Scotland travelling to New Zealand for Rugby World Cup 2011 it is an ideal time for EMC to put its faith in us to deliver a first class partnership.”

Mike Vandrau, Commercial Rights at Essentially, added: “This is fantastic news for Scottish Rugby; and really highlights how the game of rugby continues to grow from strength to strength, not just in Scotland, but across the globe. To have a worldwide brand such as EMC commit to the long-term development of rugby in Scotland can only be beneficial for all involved in the game.”

- ENDS –

For further information please contact:

Mike Vandrau
Commercial Rights, Essentially
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7820 7000
NOTES TO EDITORS

EMC Computer Systems (UK) Limited is a wholly-owned subsidiary of EMC Corporation (NYSE: EMC), the world's leading developer and provider of information infrastructure technology and solutions that enable organisations of all sizes to transform the way they compete and create value from their information. Information about EMC's products and services can be found at www.EMC.com.

EMC is a registered trademark of EMC Corporation in the United States and other countries. All other marks and names mentioned herein may be trademarks of their respective companies

Scottish Rugby is the governing body for the sport of Rugby Union in Scotland. It oversees all levels of the game from grassroots and schools, through youth, clubs, professional and representative teams, together with coaching, refereeing and volunteering. Scottish Rugby administers and upholds the Laws of the Game in Scotland. It runs domestic competitions and represents Scotland on the international stage. Scottish Rugby owns and maintains Scotland’s largest stadium, Murrayfield, which as well as rugby, hosts a range of international sporting and entertainment events. Scottish Rugby continues to develop the game at all levels throughout Scotland and aims to ensure that rugby is a sport for all.

Essentially, part of Chime Communications plc, is a leading sports marketing, media, management and services agency.

The business is split into three divisions: sports marketing comprising rights sales, consultancy and events management; athlete management; and professional services which includes tax, image rights and other related services.

Strong and focused positioning in its core sports of expertise, including cricket and rugby union, provide a strategic platform for growth and market expertise.