In a major legitimization of Dick Cedar's fledgling organization, retail giant O'Tool Hardware has announced a multi-year sponsorship deal with the Professional Plumbers League of America.
The partnership, reportedly worth "several million dollars," will see O'Tool branding prominently displayed at all PPLA events and on competitor uniforms. The company has also unveiled a new advertising campaign: "All The Tools You Can Handle."
“The PPLA represents the pinnacle of plumbing excellence.”
"O'Tool Hardware has always been about empowering craftsmen," said CEO Margaret O'Tool III in a joint press conference with Cedar. "The PPLA represents the pinnacle of plumbing excellence. This partnership is a natural fit."
Industry analysts are calling the deal a game-changer for competitive plumbing. "Nobody took Cedar seriously a year ago," noted sports business reporter Hamilton Finch. "Now he's got a Fortune 500 sponsor. Whatever you think of the man, you have to respect the hustle."
The announcement coincides with the PPLA's first nationally televised event, scheduled for next month in Atlanta. Pre-sale tickets have already sold out.
Mike Tucker, now operating as an independent contractor in the Atlanta area, had no comment on the sponsorship. However, sources say he was seen that evening at a local bar, repeatedly ordering something he called "a double traitor on the rocks."
