Big Bear Confectionery – the name behind iconic brands XXX Mints, Paynes Poppets, Just Brazils and Fox’s Glacier Mints – has announced a sponsorship deal with Leicester Tigers.

The Leicester-based manufacturer will become an official sponsor of the Premiership rugby union club, focusing on the XXX Extra Strong Mints brand and its “Can you handle them?” strapline.

Matt Baker, Sales and Marketing Director for Big Bear, said: “This sponsorship deal kicks off a period of substantial investment across Big Bear’s extensive confectionery range. We’re planning a major programme of marketing and PR support across traditional and social media as we enjoy continued growth in response to demand from our retail customers.”

Ross Stanley, Head of Trade Marketing at Big Bear, added: “We’ve already had some very positive feedback from our retail partners with regard to this partnership and we’re looking forward to building on that in the future.”

Simon Cohen, Chief Executive of Leicester Tigers, said: “We are very happy to welcome Big Bear and the XXX brand to the Tigers Family, especially with their historic roots in the city. We hope this is the start of a long partnership.”