In a first for World Table Tennis (WTT), sports equipment supplier Shanghai Double Happiness (DHS) has been signed on as a global partner.

The deal will involve DHS supplying its equipment to WTT events, as well as engaging with fans through the sport’s digital and social channels in an effort to boost the profile of table tennis.

DHS has been involved in table tennis since 1961, providing equipment to the Olympics and ITTF World Table Tennis Championships.

DHS general manager, Lou Shihe, said it is an exciting deal for the future of the sport.

“In line with WTT’s bold vision, DHS will provide WTT events with new visual impressions and offer all participating athletes with an amazing experience,” Shihe said.

“We also believe that through these events, we will be able to generate greater interest and participation among the youth for table tennis,” he said.

The deal is WTT’s first global partnership, but it is their second commercial sponsorship, after securing a partnership with Coco-Cola as their official beverage partner in November 2020.

Established in 2019, WTT is the new commercial arm for the ITTF.

The first competitive WTT event is currently taking place in Doha, Qatar, with the season to feature four annual marquee ‘Grand Smashes’.