Travis Kelce Turns Sleep Into His Next Business Play
NFL superstar Travis Kelce has made a huge investment in bed manufacturers Sleep Number, and will become the face of the brand for at least three years.
THR reports that The Kansas City Chiefs star will become one of Sleep Number's top shareholders following the investment, acquiring just under 5% of the company's stock in the open market. As part of the deal, Kelce will star in national marketing campaigns for Sleep Number over the next three years.
Travis Kelce Praises Sleep Number's Beds
Kelce gave an official statement following the purchase, claiming that he's "slept on a Sleep Number bed for years, and it's been a constant through different seasons" of his life and career. "This partnership reflects my confidence in where the company is headed and the growing opportunity around sleep."
Clarifying exactly what it is about Sleep Number that he finds so attractive, Kelce said: “The ability to adjust the bed as my recovery needs change is something I’ve personally relied on, and it’s why becoming an investor felt like a natural next step."
Linda Finley, CEO and President of Sleep Number, added: "Travis Kelce brings a winning mindset on and off the field. He understands first-hand the importance of sleep in everyday performance, especially in recovery."
Sleep Number Adds To Kelce's Global Investments
Though he's best known as an NFL superstar with the Kansas City Chiefs, Kelce is no stranger to making bold investments like this. The athlete is also partnered with Garage Beer (alongside his brother Jason), and New York-based investment firm Jana Partners. Last year, he invested a significant amount into Six Flags, one of America's leading theme park companies.
This portfolio of investments and partnerships has only fueled the lingering retirement rumors that Kelce has been dealing with over the past few months. While he's never given official confirmation that retirement is on the cards, many have speculated that his growing interest in business investment is a sign his days on the Chiefs are numbered.