Derby County Football Club unveiled a major partnership with Derby-based firm Bombardier - the world's biggest manufacturer of trains and leading builder of aircrafts - that will see the company become the club's new shirt sponsor for 2008/09.
The two parties have signed an initial one-year deal for Bombardier to have its logo on the Rams' kit for their 2008/09 Coca-Cola Championship campaign, with a vision to develop the relationship longer term.
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Fans will get their first glimpse of the new shirt when Derby County's 2008/09 home kit - complete with Bombardier logo - will be revealed for the first time at 6pm tonight (Monday June 30) at a city centre event where fans will also have the chance to meet and greet some of the Rams' new signings.
Derby County President and CEO Tom Glick said: "This is fantastic news for Derby County and I'm delighted to have struck up a partnership with a company that has its roots planted firmly in the heart of the community here in the great city of Derby, but with a footprint that extends right across the globe.
"Bombardier is an internationally recognised brand; the biggest manufacturer of trains in the world and one of the biggest producers of aircrafts.
"Striking a partnership with such a prestigious company is hugely beneficial to Derby County and it is a partnership with a long-term future.
"Our vision for this partnership goes beyond the shirt sponsorship and we have exciting plans that will benefit both companies and the wider community in Derby.
"Both Derby County and Bombardier have their roots entrenched in the local community and that remains their key focus.
"We both recognise the vital role we have to play in community life in Derby and the responsibilities that come with it. This partnership means, together, we can deliver more.
"They employ a huge number of people in the area and many of their employees are our supporters; this is another common link we share."
Bombardier employs around 2,000 people at its Derby site, which was established in 1876.
The deal will bring the company an increased profile locally, nationally and internationally with its brand exposed to a wide new audience.
And Bombardier's Chairman in the UK, Colin Walton, said: "The sponsorship programme will give Bombardier the perfect opportunity to give something back to the Derby community that has supported it so well for many years."
He added: "I'm delighted that Derby County approached Bombardier to support the club. We are particularly pleased with how the club is working closely with the local community and we look forward to developing closer ties with the Rams.
"We see this as one way of thanking the people of Derby for their support to us over the years, as the last remaining UK train manufacturer."
