MINNEAPOLIS (Oct. 8, 2003) - FLW Outdoors announced today that Watkins Great Outdoors Insect Repellent Lotion, renowned for its effectiveness in North America's buggiest wilderness areas and used by the Canadian Police and Military, will become the official insect repellent lotion for the FLW Tour as well as all FLW Outdoors tournament trails in 2004.
Available throughout all U.S. Wal-Mart stores next spring, the time-tested 28.5-percent DEET*-based insect repellent lotion has proven safe and effective for more than 30 years. The lotion, packaged in bright yellow-and-green bottles, will be available to anglers and their families in a handy travel size that fits nicely into tackle boxes, fishing vests and backpacks. An 8-ounce economy size will also be available. The distinct dispensation advantages of the lotion and its easy application will come in handy to the 55 million American anglers and their families who enjoy being in the outdoors.
"Watkins' lotion formula offers a more economical, environmentally friendly, safer and controlled application for the entire family while they are enjoying the outdoors," said Matt Hawkinson, product manager for Watkins. "We are really excited to be a part of FLW Outdoors and look forward to marketing our repellent to all the loyal anglers and their families during the 2004 season and beyond."
The family-friendly repellent was introduced in Canada in 1970 as "Watkins Insect Repellent Lotion." Watkins recently reached an agreement to nationally introduce the brand throughout Wal-Mart stores in the United States. The lotion's 28.5-percent DEET-based formula contains the optimum amount of DEET to protect against mosquitoes that can spread the West Nile virus and ticks that can carry Lyme disease.
"FLW Outdoors' goal is to offer anglers, their families, our fans and organization members products that are committed to improving the quality of every outdoor experience. Fishing is about bringing families closer together while enjoying the outdoors," said Irwin Jacobs, chairman of FLW Outdoors. "Watkins insect repellent lotion is a product that offers families exactly that while they are enjoying the outdoors. We are extremely pleased to have Watkins join the FLW Outdoors family."
Watkins Inc., famous for its quality products since 1868, is based in Winona, Minn. The company manufactures and distributes more than 300 consumer products in the United States and Canada, both directly and at retail. Great Outdoors is available exclusively at retail stores in the United States.
For more information about Watkins Inc., visit WatkinsOnline.com. For more information about FLW Outdoors tournaments, browse the organization's Web site or call (270) 252-1000.