Sainsbury’s is to sponsor the London 2012 Paralympic Games, the largest ever sponsorship of a Paralympic Games.

Sainsbury’s will work with the London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games, and use its 850-store network to promote the Games. It will promote the Games through merchandise and a media campaign.

Sainsbury’s will also work with LOCOG’s education team to develop opportunities for its Active Kids programme.

Sainsbury’s chief executive Justin King said: “We are delighted to be the official sponsor of the 2012 London Paralympic Games. The vision on which the Paralympic Movement was founded complements Sainsbury’s commitment to promote a healthy, fitter lifestyle across all ages and abilities. Together with our customers and colleagues, we look forward to supporting a successful 2012 Paralympic Games.”

LOCOG chief executive Paul Deighton said: “The support for the Paralympic Games in the UK is incredible and I’m thrilled that we are now in a position to confirm our first standalone Paralympics sponsor.  Sainsbury’s will become a valued partner of the Paralympic Movement and will help us to promote the Games to the sport loving public of the UK.  We take great pleasure in welcoming them to the London 2012 Paralympic family.”