As the official bank of the Highlanders we are proud to announce that we will be expanding our relationship with the team by becoming the new front of jersey sponsor in 2022.
SBS first joined the Highlanders as an official sponsor in 2020, with SBS Bank Chief Executive Shaun Drylie saying that the new partnership was a natural fit for the Member-owned bank because it aligned to a key focus area of well-being through the promotion and alignment to physical wellness.
“We also see this is a great opportunity to boost our community connections in Highlander country – our key catchments of Otago and Southland – and to partner with a popular and successful southern sports team."
Following a successful two years of partnership the relationship was now naturally growing and expanding with SBS becoming the new front of jersey sponsor from January 1, 2022.
Highlanders CEO Roger Clark was delighted to welcome the SBS Bank as the new front of jersey partner.
“We are excited to welcome SBS Bank. As a 100% New Zealand owned bank it is a brand that will sit proudly on the front of our playing jersey as we launch into the new Super Rugby Pacific era”
‘It’s a great opportunity to partner with an organisation that began in Southland and shares the same passion for our region and New Zealand. We look forward to bringing the southern success story to rugby followers everywhere.”
General Manager Member Experience Mark McLean said that it was a great opportunity for SBS to increase its national brand awareness while continuing to support local.
“We’re delighted to be expanding our relationship with the Highlanders, an organisation that shares our own values and understands the importance of putting communities and supporters at the forefront of their decisions."
To celebrate the expansion of this partnership, new SBS Bank Dunedin Branch Manager Janette Thompson and the team caught up with Highlanders player Aaron Smith at the Dunedin Branch to discuss the year ahead.