Diadora UK outsources its marketing as chief departs

Diadora UK, a division of the Italian sportswear brand, is outsourcing its marketing following the departure of its most senior marketer, Simon Bartle. The brand will be the first client for Bartle’s new marketing consultancy, Get Real.

Bartle, who has been marketing manager at Diadora for three years, will continue to develop the marketing strategy and sponsorship deals for the brand.

Diadora has a long-term strategy to strengthen its presence in UK football. It has been working on sponsorship deals and recently announced tie-ups with football clubs Bradford City and West Bromwich Albion. It also sponsors Aston Villa, Glasgow Rangers and Sheffield Wednesday.

The brand has developed its links with players and has deals with Manchester United captain Roy Keane (MW May 1) and Inter Milan forward Christian Vieri.

Bartle says that he would like his marketing consultancy to build up a portfolio of about six clients from the sport and fashion markets. He is in talks with other brands and hopes to announce the clients next month.