Everyday there are news stories about record gas prices in the U.S. Consumers are constantly complaining and overall consumer spending has been hurt by the high gas prices. Analysts and politicians continue to debate on possible solutions to the problem. Lately it seems that arguments for extra taxes are consistently on the table. Now comes an argument that the US should raise gas taxes to the same as Europeans, which would possibly help American consumers.
It was an amicable and mutual decision for Tiger Woods and General Motors when they came up with a decision to end the long time partnership signed to last until December 2009. GM is cost cutting amid the economic crunch while Tiger Woods wants to spend more time with his family.
The relationship between the legendary golfer and car manufacturer ends after almost a decade of endorsement. Wood was the prime mover of promoting the Buick to younger drivers while he rose to stardom in the world of golf. During his first stint as the Buick image model in 2000, Tiger Woods became the youngest player to conquer all the four major golf tournaments.
During his endorsement years, Woods appeared in a lot of endorsements for GM and his golf bag prominently displayed the Buick logo.
According to media experts, the deal with Woods might have cost GM a hefty $7.5 million a year. This was well worth it since Woods helped the brand be known internationally.
GM as part of its effort to survive the recession is cutting its support on sports. It will not have a Super Bowl ad this year and has withdrawn from sponsoring the Masters.
As the GM deal is ended, there is a big space to occupy on the world’s most famous golf bag for brands which need some push.
GM amid its cost cutting has been criticized by law makers on its luxurious and expensive jet for its executives. Car manufacturer Buick promised to get rid of the jets as mode of transport for its top officials.
Jaguar to create 600 new jobs
Jaguar has announced that it is to creat 600 new jobs in the UK, following the launch of its new recruitment drive, which is part of a £700 million investment by new parent company Tata Motors.
The main focus is on recruiting engineers that will lead the company forward on the environmental aspects of new models, but will also look to bring in people in the purchasing, finance and human resources departments. A new graduate recruitment programme is also being launched, to bring in over 80 new graduates.
The jobs will be located at the the firms current offices in Gaydon - currently the Aston Martin facility in Warwickshire.
Newly appointed Jaguar CEO David Smith said "This recruitment drive demonstrates Jaguar Land Rover's confidence in our future. With our new owners, we have entered an exciting era with new models and ambitious technologies. I can't remember a better time to be part of the British car industry, and certainly it is a brilliant time for Jaguar Land Rover.”
Current Jaguar / Land Rover sites based in Castle Bromwich, Solihull, and Halewood Merseyside employ around 16,000 people.
