MINNEAPOLIS, U.S. — Two proud, local Minnesota products teamed up Monday Night in Seattle when Minnesota-based Caribou Coffee and Minnesota Vikings All-Pro receiver Adam Thielen unveiled a pair of coffee-inspired custom cleats designed to support a cause that’s important to both the brand and superstar player.
Beginning yesterday through Dec. 31, Caribou is partnering with Thielen and his foundation, the Thielen Foundation to giveback 19 percent of proceeds from the purchases of Vikings Blend to support and expand on the Thielen Foundation’s current partnership with the behavioral health program at University of Minnesota Masonic Children’s Hospital.
Purchases can be made at Caribou Coffee locations in Minnesota or at CaribouCoffee.com.
“We’re proud to support the Thielen Foundation and continue our partnership with University of Minnesota Masonic Children’s Hospital,” says John Butcher, President of Caribou Coffee.
“Adam’s local roots, coupled with his storybook career and determination to give back are not only commendable, but inspiring. We can’t help but catch the contagious nature of this organization and its mission to love, inspire and motivate local kids as they take on challenges many of us can’t begin to imagine.”
The custom pair of cleats will feature distinctive nods to Thielen’s and the coffee maker’s home state. The shoes will not only include the unmistakable Caribou antlers, but also the brand’s “Life is Short, Stay Awake for It” motto.
In addition, the heel depicts an outline of the state with the phrase “MN Made.” The cleats were created by renowned artist Mache, who has designed all of Thielen’s themed pairs this season including last week’s nod to Minnesota State and the hit TV show, “Coach,” a tribute to the comedy, “The Waterboy” and the classic hockey movie, “Mighty Ducks.”
“Growing up in Minnesota, Caribou has long been my go-to coffee and it is [spouse] Caitlin’s favorite, too,” said Thielen. “I feel very fortunate to have the opportunity to partner with them this holiday season on a promotion benefiting my foundation. To bring our partnership to life through a custom-designed cleat for the Seattle game is perfect timing. It feels great to showcase the best of Minnesota while giving back to our community at the same time.”
The partnership with the star wideout aligns neatly with Caribou’s current efforts to give back. Caribou Coffee Cares, which launched this fall, has been donating a percentage of every Vikings Blend bag and box of k-cups sold online and at Minnesota Caribou locations this season to University of Minnesota Masonic Children’s Hospital. Caribou Coffee is also the Official Coffee of the Minnesota Vikings.
