M&M’s will sponsor Busch

Mars U.S. on Wednesday announced a three-year partnership with M&M's Brand Chocolate Candies as sponsor of the No. 18 Joe Gibbs Racing team and driver Kyle Busch in the Sprint Cup Series, beginning in 2008.

"I can't wait to climb behind the wheel of the M&M's car next season," Busch said. "M&M's Racing has been a fan favorite for years in the sport and it's an honor to drive for one of the most recognized brands in the world.

"My focus is to win, and I know that everyone at Mars shares that vision as well. I want to thank the associates at Mars U.S. for this opportunity and look forward to a winning relationship."

Interstate Batteries will serve as a primary sponsor of the No. 18 car for six races.

"We are excited to welcome Kyle Busch as the driver for M&M's Brand Chocolate Candies," said William Clements, director of sponsorships and sports marketing for Mars Snackfood U.S.

"The opportunity to partner with a championship-level organization in Joe Gibbs Racing, and a proven talent in Kyle Busch, sets the stage for an exciting year for M&M's consumers and fans.

"On behalf of our 40,000 associates worldwide, I welcome Kyle and Joe Gibbs Racing to the Mars Incorporated family and look forward to seeing M&M's in Victory Lane with the No. 18 team."

The 2008 season will mark the 15th year for Mars U.S. as a primary sponsor in NASCAR's premier division. The candy maker joined the series in 1990, running its first three seasons under the Snickers moniker. After serving as an associate sponsor for four seasons, the company returned with the Skittles colors in 1997 before transitioning to M&M's Brand Chocolate Candies in 1999.

"Mars has had a longstanding commitment to the sport of NASCAR and we are extremely pleased to welcome them to our organization," said J.D. Gibbs, president of JGR. "Their interests mirror those of my family with their involvement in both motorsports and football.

"With their well-known brands, such as M&M's Chocolate Candies, I believe they are a natural fit for our team of corporate partners. We look forward to the new relationship between JGR, Kyle Busch and M&M's and believe it will be successful for all parties both on and off the track."