MILWAUKEE -- Johnsonville is the official sausage of the Milwaukee Brewers, the Brewers announced Wednesday, Jan. 24. This, after we learned the Brewers severed ties with Klement's after the two were teamed up for more than 25 years.
According to a news release from the Brewers, Johnsonville is no rookie to the Brewers, having been their official sausage for 11 seasons from 1978–1988, including during the 1982 World Series games.
“Great food is one of the most memorable parts of the baseball-fan experience, which is why we’re thrilled to bring Johnsonville back to the Brewers,” said Ryan Pociask, VP of marketing at Johnsonville in the release.
Klement's issued this statement in response:
The Klement's announcement was made via a letter sent from Klement's CEO and President Thomas Danneker to the company's employees. That means no more Klement's products at Miller Park, and a new sponsor for the Famous Racing Sausages. We've now learned that sponsor will be Johnsonville.
CLICK HERE to read the letter to Klement's employees
Klement's Sausage Co.
Danneker went on to say the end of the partnership with the Brewers is "an opportunity" for the company. He indicated Klement's has already begun talking with other community partners to support.
According to the frequently asked questions section of the Klement's website, the Famous Racing Sausages are owned by Major League Baseball. Klement's has never been an authorized dealer and able to sell any merchandise or items with the images of the racers.
"Ultimately, it's the Brewers' property and the Brewers are in the business of raising revenue so they can pay players," Brian Bennett, STIR Marketing CEO said.
Bennett said while this might hurt, it won't break Klement's.
"I believe they're going to go invest their money in another sponsorship somewhere else," Bennett said.
On Tuesday evening, the Milwaukee Brewers issued a news release with this statement:
Some Brewers' fans said they're sad to see the change, but they remain unwavering in their support for the team.
"It's going to be hard to get used to, but I'm still going to root for the Brewers for sure," Sarah Riegleman said.