Kingfisher extends sponsorship of Yachtswoman Ellen MacArthur

by Kingfisher Media on 22 Feb 2001 Kingfisher plc today announced that it is to continue its sponsorship of record-breaking round-the-world yachtswoman Ellen MacArthur for at least the next 12 months.

Kingfisher Chief Executive Sir Geoffrey Mulcahy said: 'Ellen’s remarkable success in the sailing world’s toughest challenge was a fantastic achievement that exceeded all expectations, both for her and for Kingfisher. Our main aim in sponsoring Ellen was to raise Kingfisher’s profile, particularly in Europe, and I believe we have gone a long way to achieving that.

'Ellen is an inspiration to all 130,000 people working in Kingfisher, and we see parallels between her international ambition and our own. We’re delighted to be continuing our relationship with Ellen and relish the opportunity to contribute to her future success.'

Mark Turner, Ellen’s manager, said: 'Kingfisher believed in Ellen when no other organisation was interested in a major sponsorship. Without the Group’s support none of this would have been possible. We’re extremely pleased to extend the partnership, and are determined to build on the success of the Vendée Globe.'

Details of the renewed sponsorship deal – which will see Ellen and her successful Vendée Globe yacht Kingfisher continue to sail competitively under the banner of the European retail group – are currently being finalised and will be available in March.


Kingfisher plc is one of Europe’s leading retailers, operating principally through its two international businesses in DIY and electricals and its UK-focused general merchandise business. The company employs more than 130,000 people in over 2,900 stores across 15 countries and has some of the best known retail brands in Europe, including B&Q, Castorama, Comet, Darty, BUT, Woolworths and Superdrug among others.