Ricoh, the technology giant, has signed a new partnership with the Ladies' Golf Union that will see it remain title sponsor of the Women's British Open until 2013. The deal, which sees the tournament known as the Ricoh Women's British Open, was negotiated by IMG.

Ricoh has backed the competition, the only women's Major held outside of the USA, since 2007. It announced the extension of its partnership on the same day as world-famous course Carnoustie was added to the Women's British Open rotation. It will host the tournament in 2011.

"The Ricoh Women's British Open has proved to be the perfect event to represent our brand worldwide and we are delighted to commit our future to the Championship until at least 2013," said Ricoh deputy president Kirk Yoshida. "It is the most international event on the women's tour with a fantastic history which has matched up perfectly with Ricoh's own global presence, brand values and rich heritage. We have been delighted at how our partnership with the LGU and IMG has developed and how the Championship has progressed year on year."

Shona Malcolm, chief executive of the Ladies' Golf Union, added: "This is fantastic news, not just for our Championship but for women's golf. In the current climate nothing can be taken for granted and for a prestigious brand like Ricoh to make this sort of commitment is excellent news for golf and testament to the strength of the Championship."

Mark Steinberg, IMG global managing director, golf, said: "It is always good news to announce a new sponsorship but personally I find it even more satisfying to announce a renewed commitment as it shows that the partnership has delivered on both its promises and its sponsorship goals. It is a testament to the LGU and the entire Women’s British Open team that the future of this great tournament looks so bright and we are thrilled to be announcing this great news today."