Queensland Rugby League has announced a landmark three-year partnership with First Choice Liquor Market.
The agreement will make the drinks specialist the Queensland Maroons and Harvey Norman Queensland Maroons' first ever liquor retail partner.
First Choice Liquor Market also becomes the official coaches partner of the Maroons, which will see head coaches Billy Slater and Tahnee Norris' coaches boxes and shirts branded with the First Choice Liquor Market logo.
Coles Liquor's head of First Choice Liquor Market, Michael Bornholdt, said the retailer was thrilled to be the official liquor retail partner of the Maroons as the men’s team go into pursuit of a third-straight Origin series win and the women's team attempts a back-to-back victory in 2024.
“State of Origin is one of the most-loved events in the Aussie sporting calendar, and we couldn’t be more proud to support the Queensland Maroons as their official liquor retail partner for the next three years," Bornholdt said.
"Just like the Maroons, First Choice Liquor Market has plenty of Queensland fans, with over one third of all our stores located in the sunshine state.
"We also had a major win this year when we were voted the best liquor retailer in Australia for 2023 by Canstar Blue, scoring five stars for our checkout experience, customer service, store layout, deals and overall satisfaction."
QRL CEO Ben Ikin was thrilled to embark on this new journey with First Choice Liquor Market following an outstanding season that saw record participation growth of five per cent, driven by regional centres such as Ipswich, Townsville and the Gold Coast.
"It's our pleasure to welcome First Choice Liquor Market as Queensland Maroons' first ever official liquor retail partner," Ikin said.
"This partnership allows us to further invest in all levels of the game, from community rugby league through to our pathway programs and competitions, as we strive to create opportunities for all participants to enjoy our great game."