EVENT OVERVIEW

Marriott Rewards launched a branded bus in London as part of ‘two days of fun’ planned for its sponsorship of the National Basketball Association (NBA) Global Games.  The first location was the O2 Arena, with the bus and a unique basketball court.

THE BRIEF

GTMS branded the double decker bus inside and out, with a full wrap and customized interior. GTMS supplied lighting and AV equipment and additional external branding to support the tour. We also went on tour throughout London to help manage security and transport. The external basketball hoop transformed the bus into a mobile basketball court in each location.  Inside the O2 Arena, the bus and court were installed by GTMS to provide fans with an opportunity to take shots and compete against celebrities such as footballer Didier Drogba, Vernon Kay and Paddy McGuinness as part of a social media competition.

SOLUTION

The branding on the bus and within the court space amplified the hashtag #AroundTheWorld with the purpose that Marriott Rewards and the NBA would recruit two basketball fans to have a shoot-off with the participating celebrities at the different bus locations. GTMS were responsible for the vehicle revamp, tour branding, installation of the basketball court at the O2 and branding hospitality suites in the arena.

The hotel brand is the first company to partner with the sporting group across international games on five different continents.

Karin Timpone, global marketing officer at Marriott International, said: “Basketball is one of the most popular sports in the world. With this extension of our NBA partnership, we are creating memorable experiences for our Marriott Rewards members and connecting them with others who share their passion for basketball and travel.