Latest news with #WilliamWhite
Business Insider
4 hours ago
- Business
- Business Insider
Get In! Walmart Kicks Off Partnership with Major League Soccer Ahead of the 2026 World Cup
U.S. retail giant Walmart (WMT) is investing in the Beautiful Game ahead of next Summer's World Cup. Elevate Your Investing Strategy: Take advantage of TipRanks Premium at 50% off! Unlock powerful investing tools, advanced data, and expert analyst insights to help you invest with confidence. Walmart is teaming up with Major League Soccer (MLS) in a multiyear partnership that will see the retailer tap into a growing U.S. fanbase for the sport. Kick Off Walmart will invest in MLS and become an official sponsor and partner of the league. Terms and the exact length of the partnership have not bene disclosed. The partnership kicks off with the Leagues Cup, a tournament that ends in a final on August 31. It features 18 MLS clubs competing against 18 teams from Mexico's Liga MX. 'Walmart will be front and center for the highly anticipated tournament,' said William White, Walmart's chief marketing officer. During the tournament and beyond, Walmart advertising will be featured across stadiums and other aspects of games, and soccer, once called the Beautiful Game by legendary star Pele, will be highlighted in its in-store and online shopping experiences. The tie-up comes around 12 months out from the 2026 World Cup, which the U.S. is co-hosting with Mexico and Canada, and will feature some of the world's biggest football stars such as Argentina's Lionel Messi and Spain's Rodri. 'The lead-up to 2026 is a once-in-a-generational moment for soccer in North America,' said Carter Ladd, executive vice president and chief revenue officer at MLS. Fan Experience While Walmart has already been an advertising partner of MLS, this is its first sponsorship deal with the league. In addition, beginning in 2026, the league and Walmart said they will add to the fan experience by building out programming around televised matches on Saturdays that includes more storytelling around games across MLS platforms. Walmart will also launch a soccer landing page on its website, called a 'curated shopping hub,' that will include all things related to the sport — from gear and equipment to tailgate and watch party items. 'We're thrilled to be an official MLS sponsor and engage with the league's fast-growing and culturally vibrant fan base,' said White. 'The fanbase is generally younger, more culturally diverse, and that is an audience that's really important to Walmart. It's a big part of our growing customer base.' Indeed, nearly three-quarters of the MLS fanbase is made up of Gen Zers or millennials, and more than 30% is Hispanic. That could lead to a boost in its sales to younger people and those in Mexico and Canada gearing up for the World Cup. Is WMT a Good Stock to Buy Now? On TipRanks, WMT has a Strong Buy consensus based on 28 Buy ratings. Its highest price target is $120. WMT stock's consensus price target is $111.33 implying a 13.07% upside.
Yahoo
18 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
Walmart Signs Multi-Year Partnership with Major League Soccer and Leagues Cup to Elevate the Game for U.S. Fans
New collaboration fuels fan culture, expands retail touchpoints and builds momentum ahead of the 2026 World Cup BENTONVILLE, Ark., July 29, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Walmart (NYSE: WMT) is stepping onto the pitch in a big way. The company today announced a multi-year partnership that makes the retailer an official partner of Major League Soccer (MLS) and Leagues Cup. This collaboration marks a major milestone in Walmart's expanding investment and commitment to celebrating the world's game and deepening connections with one of the most culturally vibrant and fastest-growing fan bases in North America. Power plays on and off the pitch: what fans can expect This partnership is designed with fans at the center—making it more convenient, immersive, and exciting to engage with soccer, wherever and however they follow the game. Through this partnership, Walmart will activate across stadiums, screens and stores to bring fans closer to the action. As an official partner of MLS and Leagues Cup, Walmart will serve fans at every step of the matchday journey, from in-real-life (IRL) experiences to merchandise coming soon, whether they're shopping for gear, hosting a watch party or connecting with their local soccer community. Key highlights of the multi-year partnership include: Leagues Cup Spotlight: Walmart will be front and center for the highly anticipated tournament between clubs from MLS and LIGA MX. Kicking off today and culminating in the final on August 31, this year's edition features a new two-phase format and 18 clubs from both leagues—bringing more top-tier soccer to fans across North America. Walmart's partnership means more activations and opportunities for fans to get in on the action. Dedicated Programming on Saturdays: Major League Soccer and Walmart share a commitment to enhancing the fan experience and growing the cultural impact of the game. As part of that shared vision, beginning in 2026, Saturdays will feature elevated storytelling designed to spotlight unmissable marquee matchups and further enhance how fans connect with MLS across platforms. Additional details will be shared ahead of launch. Creator Network: Storytelling Beyond the 90 Minutes: Soccer stories don't end at the final whistle. MLS is launching a custom creator network — bringing together cultural influencers, designers, players and teams to deliver exclusive behind-the-scenes content and highlight how Walmart is dedicated to soccer's ever-expanding place. Multi-Channel Fan Engagement: Walmart is connecting with fans wherever they are, whenever they want. Expect digital and in-real-life (IRL) experiences at rivalry matches, tentpole events and community activations, plus branded integrations and national media moments that make every matchday unforgettable. "Soccer is more than a sport — it's a culture and a community, and one that's growing rapidly in the U.S.," said William White, chief marketing officer at Walmart. "Walmart is focused on celebrating the game and making it more personal for fans. It's about celebrating the passion of soccer lovers and creating opportunities for them to connect with the game they love. By partnering with MLS and the Leagues Cup, we're not just supporting soccer—we're empowering fans to shape its future in the U.S." A fast-growing game, and a fanbase to match Major League Soccer is already home to the youngest and most diverse fan base in North American pro sports, and with the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, soccer's rise shows no signs of slowing down. Walmart's investment reflects a long-term commitment to supporting the sport's future in the U.S., starting at the grassroots level and building all the way to the global stage. "MLS is at the forefront of a cultural movement that's redefining sports fandom in North America," said Carter Ladd, MLS EVP, Chief Revenue Officer. "The partnership with Walmart reflects our shared commitment to reaching fans in fresh, authentic ways. Together, we're building pathways to connect with our diverse, passionate, and digitally native MLS fans through storytelling, experiences, and retail moments that reflect the evolving identity of the soccer community." Everything Fans Need, All in One Place To help fans gear up, Walmart has launched a curated shopping hub filled with everything from tailgate essentials to team merch. The site will evolve throughout the season to reflect fan favorites, tournament timelines and exclusive offerings tied to upcoming matchups. Because fandom doesn't end at the final whistle — and neither does Walmart's commitment to the customers who live it. About Walmart Walmart Inc. (NYSE: WMT) is a people-led, tech-powered omnichannel retailer helping people save money and live better - anytime and anywhere - in stores, online, and through their mobile devices. Each week, approximately 270 million customers and members visit more than 10,750 stores and numerous eCommerce websites in 19 countries. With fiscal year 2025 revenue of $681 billion, Walmart employs approximately 2.1 million associates worldwide. Walmart continues to be a leader in sustainability, corporate philanthropy, and employment opportunity. Additional information about Walmart can be found by visiting on Facebook at on X (formerly known as Twitter) at and on LinkedIn at About Major League Soccer Headquartered in New York City, Major League Soccer -- celebrating its 30th season in 2025 -- features 30 clubs throughout the United States and Canada. All MLS, Leagues Cup, and select MLS NEXT Pro and MLS NEXT matches can be watched through MLS Season Pass, available on the Apple TV app on Apple devices, smart TVs, streaming devices, set-top boxes, and game consoles, and the web at MLS Season Pass features the most expansive and accessible lineup of programming ever for MLS fans. For more information about MLS, visit For more information about the Apple TV app, visit About Leagues Cup Entering its third year, Leagues Cup represents a monumental new chapter for North American club soccer. Since 2023, Major League Soccer and LIGA MX have fueled the long-standing soccer rivalry between the three countries and its first division leagues to compete in this Concacaf-sanctioned summer cup, which qualifies the top three finishers for the Concacaf Champions Cup. Fans in over 100 countries and regions will be able to watch Leagues Cup on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV. In addition, TelevisaUnivision, FOX Sports, TSN, and RDS will be the linear broadcast home for select Leagues Cup matches. View source version on Contacts press@ Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Business Wire
18 hours ago
- Business
- Business Wire
Walmart Signs Multi-Year Partnership with Major League Soccer and Leagues Cup to Elevate the Game for U.S. Fans
BENTONVILLE, Ark.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Walmart (NYSE: WMT) is stepping onto the pitch in a big way. The company today announced a multi-year partnership that makes the retailer an official partner of Major League Soccer (MLS) and Leagues Cup. This collaboration marks a major milestone in Walmart's expanding investment and commitment to celebrating the world's game and deepening connections with one of the most culturally vibrant and fastest-growing fan bases in North America. Power plays on and off the pitch: what fans can expect This partnership is designed with fans at the center—making it more convenient, immersive, and exciting to engage with soccer, wherever and however they follow the game. Through this partnership, Walmart will activate across stadiums, screens and stores to bring fans closer to the action. As an official partner of MLS and Leagues Cup, Walmart will serve fans at every step of the matchday journey, from in-real-life (IRL) experiences to merchandise coming soon, whether they're shopping for gear, hosting a watch party or connecting with their local soccer community. Key highlights of the multi-year partnership include: Leagues Cup Spotlight: Walmart will be front and center for the highly anticipated tournament between clubs from MLS and LIGA MX. Kicking off today and culminating in the final on August 31, this year's edition features a new two-phase format and 18 clubs from both leagues—bringing more top-tier soccer to fans across North America. Walmart's partnership means more activations and opportunities for fans to get in on the action. Dedicated Programming on Saturdays: Major League Soccer and Walmart share a commitment to enhancing the fan experience and growing the cultural impact of the game. As part of that shared vision, beginning in 2026, Saturdays will feature elevated storytelling designed to spotlight unmissable marquee matchups and further enhance how fans connect with MLS across platforms. Additional details will be shared ahead of launch. Creator Network: Storytelling Beyond the 90 Minutes: Soccer stories don't end at the final whistle. MLS is launching a custom creator network — bringing together cultural influencers, designers, players and teams to deliver exclusive behind-the-scenes content and highlight how Walmart is dedicated to soccer's ever-expanding place. Multi-Channel Fan Engagement: Walmart is connecting with fans wherever they are, whenever they want. Expect digital and in-real-life (IRL) experiences at rivalry matches, tentpole events and community activations, plus branded integrations and national media moments that make every matchday unforgettable. 'Soccer is more than a sport — it's a culture and a community, and one that's growing rapidly in the U.S.,' said William White, chief marketing officer at Walmart. "Walmart is focused on celebrating the game and making it more personal for fans. It's about celebrating the passion of soccer lovers and creating opportunities for them to connect with the game they love. By partnering with MLS and the Leagues Cup, we're not just supporting soccer—we're empowering fans to shape its future in the U.S.' A fast-growing game, and a fanbase to match Major League Soccer is already home to the youngest and most diverse fan base in North American pro sports, and with the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, soccer's rise shows no signs of slowing down. Walmart's investment reflects a long-term commitment to supporting the sport's future in the U.S., starting at the grassroots level and building all the way to the global stage. 'MLS is at the forefront of a cultural movement that's redefining sports fandom in North America,' said Carter Ladd, MLS EVP, Chief Revenue Officer. 'The partnership with Walmart reflects our shared commitment to reaching fans in fresh, authentic ways. Together, we're building pathways to connect with our diverse, passionate, and digitally native MLS fans through storytelling, experiences, and retail moments that reflect the evolving identity of the soccer community.' Everything Fans Need, All in One Place To help fans gear up, Walmart has launched a curated shopping hub filled with everything from tailgate essentials to team merch. The site will evolve throughout the season to reflect fan favorites, tournament timelines and exclusive offerings tied to upcoming matchups. Because fandom doesn't end at the final whistle — and neither does Walmart's commitment to the customers who live it. About Walmart Walmart Inc. (NYSE: WMT) is a people-led, tech-powered omnichannel retailer helping people save money and live better - anytime and anywhere - in stores, online, and through their mobile devices. Each week, approximately 270 million customers and members visit more than 10,750 stores and numerous eCommerce websites in 19 countries. With fiscal year 2025 revenue of $681 billion, Walmart employs approximately 2.1 million associates worldwide. Walmart continues to be a leader in sustainability, corporate philanthropy, and employment opportunity. Additional information about Walmart can be found by visiting on Facebook at on X (formerly known as Twitter) at and on LinkedIn at Headquartered in New York City, Major League Soccer -- celebrating its 30th season in 2025 -- features 30 clubs throughout the United States and Canada. All MLS, Leagues Cup, and select MLS NEXT Pro and MLS NEXT matches can be watched through MLS Season Pass, available on the Apple TV app on Apple devices, smart TVs, streaming devices, set-top boxes, and game consoles, and the web at MLS Season Pass features the most expansive and accessible lineup of programming ever for MLS fans. For more information about MLS, visit For more information about the Apple TV app, visit Entering its third year, Leagues Cup represents a monumental new chapter for North American club soccer. Since 2023, Major League Soccer and LIGA MX have fueled the long-standing soccer rivalry between the three countries and its first division leagues to compete in this Concacaf-sanctioned summer cup, which qualifies the top three finishers for the Concacaf Champions Cup. Fans in over 100 countries and regions will be able to watch Leagues Cup on MLS Season Pass on Apple TV. In addition, TelevisaUnivision, FOX Sports, TSN, and RDS will be the linear broadcast home for select Leagues Cup matches.
Yahoo
20 hours ago
- Business
- Yahoo
AscellaHealth HUB Partnership with Abeona Therapeutics® Supports Launch Success of Novel Cell-Based Gene Therapy and Access to Treatment for Rare Disease Patients
BERWYN, Pa., July 29, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- AscellaHealth, a global partner delivering customizable solutions to support the specialty pharmaceutical industry, highlights the value of its HUB partnership with Abeona Therapeutics Inc. (Nasdaq: ABEO) in the successful pre-and-post launch commercialization of ZEVASKYN™, an FDA-approved cell-based gene therapy. Working as a collaborative partner, AscellaHealth designed and executed patient-centric, end-to-end solutions to address unique clinical, operational and reimbursement needs for a new-to-world autologous cell-based gene therapy. By focusing on the requirements of patients throughout the entire therapeutic journey, AscellaHealth led the collaborative effort to build and launch AbeonaAssist™, a highly customized patient support program that creates a seamless experience for patients, caregivers and healthcare providers. "Abeona's groundbreaking cell-based gene therapy demanded a HUB partner who could build tailored infrastructure from the ground up,' said William White, Vice President of Market Access at Abeona Therapeutics. 'AscellaHealth's comprehensive expertise in navigating this complex journey, from patient and provider engagement to optimizing reimbursement for this first-of-its-kind treatment, made them the unequivocal partner of choice. Since launch, their unwavering commitment to a patient-centric model, which perfectly aligns with our program's vision, has proven invaluable.' Bill Oldham, Chairman and President, AscellaHealth, says, 'We value our strategic partnership with Abeona which is built upon an aligned vision, a foundation of shared goals and a clear understanding of what can be achieved through collaboration. Together, we have created synergies that not only benefit both organizations, but most importantly, patient access to treatment and optimized clinical outcomes. Abeona epitomizes our description of an ideal partner that is committed to open communications, trust and transparency.' AscellaHealth's integrated patient services and HUB model are proving instrumental in achieving optimal results for life science manufacturers launching specialty pharmaceuticals, and cell and gene therapies for individuals with complex, chronic conditions and rare disease. The results highlight enhanced compliance, retention and satisfaction rates, underscoring the effectiveness of AscellaHealth's tailored programs that consistently deliver measurable outcomes:About ZEVASKYN™ (prademagene zamikeracel) gene-modified cellular sheets ZEVASKYN is the first and only autologous cell sheet-based gene therapy for the treatment of wounds in adult and pediatric patients with recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB). RDEB is a severe skin disease caused by a defect in both copies of the COL7A1 gene resulting in the inability to produce functional type VII collagen. Without functional type VII collagen and anchoring fibrils, the skin is fragile and blisters easily, leading to wounds that continually open and close, or fail to heal altogether. Patients often have large open wounds that can lead to serious life-threatening complications. ZEVASKYN incorporates the functional type VII collagen-producing COL7A1 gene into a patient's own skin cells, ex vivo, using a replication-incompetent retroviral vector to produce functional type VII collagen in treated wounds. ZEVASKYN has demonstrated clinically meaningful wound healing and pain reduction with a single surgical application. For more information, visit Indication ZEVASKYN™ (prademagene zamikeracel) is an autologous cell sheet-based gene therapy indicated for the treatment of wounds in adult and pediatric patients with recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB). Important Safety Information Serious allergic reactions to ZEVASKYN can occur. Patients should get medical help right away if they experience symptoms like itching, swelling, hives, difficulty breathing, runny nose, watery eyes, or nausea. In rare cases, a severe reaction called anaphylaxis may happen. There is a potential risk that treatment with ZEVASKYN may contribute to the development of cancer because of how the therapy works. Patients should be monitored for the rest of their lives to check for any signs of cancer. ZEVASKYN is made using human and animal materials. Although these materials are tested before use, the risk of passing on infections cannot be eliminated. The most common side effects are pain from the procedure and itching. This is not a complete list of side effects. Patients should call their care team for medical advice about side effects. Side effects may be reported to Abeona at 1-844-888-2236 or FDA at 1-800-FDA-1088 or See full Prescribing Information. About AscellaHealth AscellaHealth is a global partner that delivers proven end-to-end solutions to both life sciences and healthcare companies to enhance the quality of life for patients with complex, chronic conditions. A dedicated team gets critical healthcare products from manufacturers to patients while ensuring an efficient flow of funds between payers and pharma. Visit About Abeona TherapeuticsAbeona Therapeutics Inc. is a commercial-stage biopharmaceutical company developing cell and gene therapies for serious diseases. Abeona's ZEVASKYN™ (prademagene zamikeracel) is the first and only autologous cell-based gene therapy for the treatment of wounds in adults and pediatric patients with recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa (RDEB). The Company's fully integrated cGMP cell and gene therapy manufacturing facility in Cleveland, Ohio serves as the manufacturing site for ZEVASKYN commercial production. The Company's development portfolio features adeno-associated virus (AAV)-based gene therapies for ophthalmic diseases with high unmet medical need. Abeona's novel, next-generation AAV capsids are being evaluated to improve tropism profiles for a variety of devastating diseases. For more information, visit ZEVASKYN™, Abeona Assist™, Abeona Therapeutics®, and their related logos are trademarks of Abeona Therapeutics Inc. Media: Caroline Chambers CPR Communicationscchambers@ x 21 A photo accompanying this announcement is available at This press release was published by a CLEAR® Verified in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
CNBC
20 hours ago
- Business
- CNBC
Walmart, MLS ink partnership to capitalize on growing U.S. soccer fandom
Walmart and Major League Soccer are teaming up in a multiyear partnership that will see the retailer establish a bigger foothold in the sport and its growing U.S. fanbase. Walmart will invest in MLS and become an official sponsor and partner of the league. Terms and the exact length of the partnership weren't disclosed. The partnership kicks off with the Leagues Cup, a tournament that begins Tuesday and culminates in a final match on Aug. 31. It features 18 MLS clubs competing against 18 teams from Mexico's Liga MX. "Walmart will be front and center for the highly anticipated tournament," said William White, Walmart's chief marketing officer. During the tournament and beyond, Walmart advertising will be featured across stadiums and other aspects of games, and soccer will be highlighted in its in-store and online shopping experiences. The tie-up comes at a pivotal moment for U.S. soccer as fans look ahead to the 2026 World Cup, which takes place next summer in North America and is expected to drum up new U.S. fans for the global sport. MLS is looking to capitalize on the fervor, just as its various sponsors are looking to do the same. "The lead-up to 2026 is a once-in-a-generational moment for soccer in North America. But for MLS, we've got to take a step back and think about the 30 years we've spent investing in communities across North America to really build sustained energy around the sport that's going to last well beyond the summer's event," said Carter Ladd, executive vice president and chief revenue officer at MLS. "I think we're going to see that momentum between now and next summer where the World Cup is really going to help prop up this partnership." MLS sponsorship revenue was up double digits compared with 2024 as of early May, CNBC reported earlier this year. Major consumer brands have been signing deals with MLS alongside growth in the league's ticket and merchandise sales, particularly since global superstar Lionel Messi joined the Miami club in 2023. However, White and Ladd said in an interview with CNBC the Walmart partnership extends beyond a pure sponsorship deal. While Walmart has already been an advertising partner of MLS, this is its first sponsorship deal with the league — and a first-of-it-kind partnership for both parties, they say. "We're thrilled to be an official MLS sponsor and engage with the league's fast-growing and culturally vibrant fan base," said White. "The fanbase is generally younger, more culturally diverse, and that is an audience that's really important to Walmart. It's a big part of our growing customer base." Nearly three-quarters of the MLS fanbase is made up of Gen Zers or millennials, and more than 30% is Hispanic, according to the league. MLS data shows it has the youngest fanbase compared with other professional men's leagues in North America, and more female fans than other professional men's leagues in the U.S. and Canada. The league's social media presence has been a sign of its growth among younger fans. Its digital audience surpassed 110 million total followers across league and club accounts on platforms including Instagram, TikTok and YouTube, according to the league. As part of the deal, MLS will launch a creator network through which influencers, designers, players and teams will deliver exclusive behind-the-scenes content for league platforms and highlight Walmart's involvement in the sport. In addition, beginning in 2026, the league and Walmart said they will add to the fan experience by building out programming around televised matches on Saturdays that includes more storytelling around games across MLS platforms. Further details will be shared at a later date on this aspect of the partnership. The destination for that content has yet to be developed, however. "It's going to be a new platform that we're going to be kicking off together in partnership with Walmart next year. And it's not going to show up in one place," Ladd said. "It's really going to be a very broad, comprehensive program that touches the community, touches retail and touches media." Walmart will also launch a soccer landing page on its website, called a "curated shopping hub," that will include all things related to the sport — from gear and equipment to tailgate and watch party items. The page will also highlight suppliers that make soccer-related products and could someday host exclusive merchandise.
