Sports Insight Magazine is the Sports Industry's leading trade publication.
Updated: 58 min 50 sec ago
WINNERS REVEALED AT BT SPORT INDUSTRY AWARDS
The best of the best from the UK sport industry over the last year was rewarded at the BT Sport Industry Awards on Thursday evening,
arena appointed premium partner of the German Swimming Federation
arena is to become a premium partner and official supplier of the German Swimming Federation (Deutschen Schwimm-Verbandes).
One of the goals of both partners is to attract more followers to the sport. To that end, several events are on the 2013 agenda.
"We are pleased that with arena, with whom we have worked in different areas for decades, has opted for premium partnership,” says DSV president D. Christa Thiel.
“The company is so deeply rooted in swimming that both partners are already thinking above and beyond the national team.
“Thus the focus is on the promotion of the sport as a whole - from competitive to recreational swimming.”
As a premium partner of DSV swimming, arena will equip the federation’s top athletes for all international competitions.
Christiane Nothelfer, manager of arena Germany GmbH, sees the partnership as a great opportunity to promote the sport: "We are very happy to have such a strong partner and with the athletes and coaches we can foster the broader public’s enthusiasm for the sport of swimming."
To promote the sport, DSV has pledged to support arena’s Swim Academy.
These one day seminars give young athletes the opportunity to interact with swimmers and coaches from the national team, who share their experiences and provide insight into their training routines.
One of the goals of both partners is to attract more followers to the sport. To that end, several events are on the 2013 agenda.
"We are pleased that with arena, with whom we have worked in different areas for decades, has opted for premium partnership,” says DSV president D. Christa Thiel.
“The company is so deeply rooted in swimming that both partners are already thinking above and beyond the national team.
“Thus the focus is on the promotion of the sport as a whole - from competitive to recreational swimming.”
As a premium partner of DSV swimming, arena will equip the federation’s top athletes for all international competitions.
Christiane Nothelfer, manager of arena Germany GmbH, sees the partnership as a great opportunity to promote the sport: "We are very happy to have such a strong partner and with the athletes and coaches we can foster the broader public’s enthusiasm for the sport of swimming."
To promote the sport, DSV has pledged to support arena’s Swim Academy.
These one day seminars give young athletes the opportunity to interact with swimmers and coaches from the national team, who share their experiences and provide insight into their training routines.
‘Hastily conceived and ill thought out’
A sports retailer has slammed a deal that has opened the door for a website owned by Sports Direct to undercut boot prices offered by independents in the Republic of Ireland.
Gerard Wyley of Ger Wyley Footwear and Sportswear, which is based in Dungarvan, has called the endorsement of Gaelicboots.com by the Gaelic Athletic Association and Gaelic Players Association ‘hastily conceived and ill thought out’.
In an open letter to GPA chief executive Dessie Farrell, Wyley stated that he has been a supporter of Waterford County Board and local clubs for 24 years: ‘To date, in association with Skins we have sponsored €75,000 worth of Skins product for the Waterford senior hurling panel.
‘With the GPA/GAA encouraging its members - myself included - and supporters to purchase not only boots but also runners on Gaelicboots.com, we will no longer be in a position to continue this level of sponsorship.’
Wyley alleges the deal has given Sports Direct access to the Irish market without it having to shoulder the costs incurred by retailers in the Republic such as rates, insurance and advertising.
He also accused the GPA/GAA of taking money out of the local economy, leaving supporters with less money to attend games, adding: ‘It is a travesty of justice for a national organisation to be promoting the purchase of merchandise from a UK registered company.’
In a statement to the Irish Independent newspaper, GAA spokesman Alan Milton said: “Gaelicboots.com is a joint initiative between the GAA and the GPA to help fund the GAA and GPA player welfare and development programmes.
“It was launched specifically as a medium for players who purchase their boots online, offering them a wider range of boots at competitive prices.
“Football boots represent a small proportion of the overall expenditure on GAA playing gear and equipment and are excluded from the provision under the GAA rules whereby all jerseys, shorts, stockings, tracksuits and kit bags worn in official matches, and all replica playing gear, must be of Irish manufacture.
“It is a matter for each player and unit to decide whether they wish to purchase their boots, playing gear or equipment online or from retailers.”
Gerard Wyley of Ger Wyley Footwear and Sportswear, which is based in Dungarvan, has called the endorsement of Gaelicboots.com by the Gaelic Athletic Association and Gaelic Players Association ‘hastily conceived and ill thought out’.
In an open letter to GPA chief executive Dessie Farrell, Wyley stated that he has been a supporter of Waterford County Board and local clubs for 24 years: ‘To date, in association with Skins we have sponsored €75,000 worth of Skins product for the Waterford senior hurling panel.
‘With the GPA/GAA encouraging its members - myself included - and supporters to purchase not only boots but also runners on Gaelicboots.com, we will no longer be in a position to continue this level of sponsorship.’
Wyley alleges the deal has given Sports Direct access to the Irish market without it having to shoulder the costs incurred by retailers in the Republic such as rates, insurance and advertising.
He also accused the GPA/GAA of taking money out of the local economy, leaving supporters with less money to attend games, adding: ‘It is a travesty of justice for a national organisation to be promoting the purchase of merchandise from a UK registered company.’
In a statement to the Irish Independent newspaper, GAA spokesman Alan Milton said: “Gaelicboots.com is a joint initiative between the GAA and the GPA to help fund the GAA and GPA player welfare and development programmes.
“It was launched specifically as a medium for players who purchase their boots online, offering them a wider range of boots at competitive prices.
“Football boots represent a small proportion of the overall expenditure on GAA playing gear and equipment and are excluded from the provision under the GAA rules whereby all jerseys, shorts, stockings, tracksuits and kit bags worn in official matches, and all replica playing gear, must be of Irish manufacture.
“It is a matter for each player and unit to decide whether they wish to purchase their boots, playing gear or equipment online or from retailers.”
arena appointed premium partner of the German Swimming Federation
arena is to become a premium partner and official supplier of the German Swimming Federation (Deutschen Schwimm-Verbandes).
One of the goals of both partners is to attract more followers to the sport of swimming. To that end, several events are on the 2013 agenda.
"We are pleased that with arena, with whom we have worked in different areas for decades, has opted for premium partnership,” says DSV president D. Christa Thiel.
“The company is so deeply rooted in swimming that both partners are already thinking above and beyond the national team.
“Thus the focus is on the promotion of the sport as a whole - from competitive to recreational swimming.”
As a premium partner of DSV swimming, arena will equip the federation’s top athletes for all international competitions.
Christiane Nothelfer, manager of arena Germany GmbH, sees the partnership as a great opportunity to promote the sport: "We are very happy to have such a strong partner and with the athletes and coaches we can foster the broader public’s enthusiasm for the sport of swimming."
To promote the sport, DSV has pledged to support arena’s Swim Academy.
These one day seminars give young athletes the opportunity to interact with swimmers and coaches from the national team, who share their experiences and provide insight into their training routines.
One of the goals of both partners is to attract more followers to the sport of swimming. To that end, several events are on the 2013 agenda.
"We are pleased that with arena, with whom we have worked in different areas for decades, has opted for premium partnership,” says DSV president D. Christa Thiel.
“The company is so deeply rooted in swimming that both partners are already thinking above and beyond the national team.
“Thus the focus is on the promotion of the sport as a whole - from competitive to recreational swimming.”
As a premium partner of DSV swimming, arena will equip the federation’s top athletes for all international competitions.
Christiane Nothelfer, manager of arena Germany GmbH, sees the partnership as a great opportunity to promote the sport: "We are very happy to have such a strong partner and with the athletes and coaches we can foster the broader public’s enthusiasm for the sport of swimming."
To promote the sport, DSV has pledged to support arena’s Swim Academy.
These one day seminars give young athletes the opportunity to interact with swimmers and coaches from the national team, who share their experiences and provide insight into their training routines.
arena appointed premium partner of the German Swimming Federation
arena is to become a premium partner and official supplier of the German Swimming Federation (Deutschen Schwimm-Verbandes).
One of the goals of both partners is to attract more followers to the sport of swimming. To that end, several events are on the 2013 agenda.
"We are pleased that with arena, with whom we have worked in different areas for decades, has opted for premium partnership,” says DSV president D. Christa Thiel.
“The company is so deeply rooted in swimming that both partners are already thinking above and beyond the national team.
“Thus the focus is on the promotion of the sport as a whole - from competitive to recreational swimming.”
As a premium partner of DSV swimming, arena will equip the federation’s top athletes for all international competitions.
Christiane Nothelfer, manager of arena Germany GmbH, sees the partnership as a great opportunity to promote the sport: "We are very happy to have such a strong partner and with the athletes and coaches we can foster the broader public’s enthusiasm for the sport of swimming."
To promote the sport, DSV has pledged to support arena’s Swim Academy.
These one day seminars give young athletes the opportunity to interact with swimmers and coaches from the national team, who share their experiences and provide insight into their training routines.
One of the goals of both partners is to attract more followers to the sport of swimming. To that end, several events are on the 2013 agenda.
"We are pleased that with arena, with whom we have worked in different areas for decades, has opted for premium partnership,” says DSV president D. Christa Thiel.
“The company is so deeply rooted in swimming that both partners are already thinking above and beyond the national team.
“Thus the focus is on the promotion of the sport as a whole - from competitive to recreational swimming.”
As a premium partner of DSV swimming, arena will equip the federation’s top athletes for all international competitions.
Christiane Nothelfer, manager of arena Germany GmbH, sees the partnership as a great opportunity to promote the sport: "We are very happy to have such a strong partner and with the athletes and coaches we can foster the broader public’s enthusiasm for the sport of swimming."
To promote the sport, DSV has pledged to support arena’s Swim Academy.
These one day seminars give young athletes the opportunity to interact with swimmers and coaches from the national team, who share their experiences and provide insight into their training routines.
Steve Finn to lead Bioflow’s entry into cricket market
Middlesex and England cricketer Steve Finn has joined Bioflow and will spearhead the magnetic wrist product specialist’s launch into the cricket market.
The 24-year-old fast bowler will wear the new Bioflow Sport Twin wristband.
“I have always worn sports wristbands, but had never found one truly comfortable until I used the Bioflow Twin,” says Finn.
“It is attractive, comfortable and helps aid my performance while spending lots of time out in the field.”
Richard Corsie, managing director of Bioflow, adds: “We’re delighted to welcome Steve to Team Bioflow.
“Cricket has been a market we have considered for some time and while we have had cricketers wear our products before, with Steve on board as an ambassador for the new Sport Twin wrist band we feel the timing is now right.”
Magnetic therapy is complementary, non invasive and 100 per cent natural.
The Bioflow Sport and Bioflow Sport Twin are the latest in a line of product innovations designed specifically for the sports market.
The 24-year-old fast bowler will wear the new Bioflow Sport Twin wristband.
“I have always worn sports wristbands, but had never found one truly comfortable until I used the Bioflow Twin,” says Finn.
“It is attractive, comfortable and helps aid my performance while spending lots of time out in the field.”
Richard Corsie, managing director of Bioflow, adds: “We’re delighted to welcome Steve to Team Bioflow.
“Cricket has been a market we have considered for some time and while we have had cricketers wear our products before, with Steve on board as an ambassador for the new Sport Twin wrist band we feel the timing is now right.”
Magnetic therapy is complementary, non invasive and 100 per cent natural.
The Bioflow Sport and Bioflow Sport Twin are the latest in a line of product innovations designed specifically for the sports market.
St Lawrence College chooses forward facing supplier for kit of distinction
Esteemed private school St Lawrence College, located in Ramsgate, Kent, embarked upon a full uniform audit two years ago.
The conclusion was that their old sports kit was not reflective of the school’s distinctive identity and exemplary reputation and was no longer fit for purpose.
The brief was to introduce a new sports kit to coincide with the opening of a state of the art sports hall and appointment of new director of sport Adam Izzard to strengthen the school’s sporting record and image.
They turned to GFORCE from Gymphlex, one of their existing suppliers, recognising this cutting edge brand as one of the only collections on the market that would enable them to create the perfect kit for them.
Shop development manager Jo Hills comments on what attracted her to GFORCE: “I first became aware of GFORCE when I visited the Schoolwear Show two years ago.
“Having been familiar with the Gymphlex brand, which we already stocked in the on-site school shop, I was keen to see their new GFORCE range when I visited their stand.
“GFORCE jumped out as the only brand at the show that had moved with the times and reflected the changing needs of the sports schoolwear market.
“The designs were contemporary and developed to offer improved performance using technical fabrics.
“Being able to see images to our own specifications designed on the stand made it clear this was the range for us. Gymphlex were very helpful in assisting me to identify the perfect selection of garments to meet the requirements of the school.”
Established over 120 years ago, St Lawrence College takes pupils from 3-18, meeting their educational needs from nursery to 6th form.
They now have a range of garments that make up their core kit and can be used for all physical activities the school has to offer, all produced in the school colours of navy and maroon with white as a highlight colour.
For girls: polo shirts, skorts, hoodies and tracksuits.
For boys: rugby/hockey shirts and shorts, polo shirts, hoodies and tracksuits.
St Lawrence College have also selected base layer garments from the Gymphlex Core range.
For further information on Gymphlex and GFORCE call 0116 255 6326 or visit http://www.gforcesportswear.co.uk
The conclusion was that their old sports kit was not reflective of the school’s distinctive identity and exemplary reputation and was no longer fit for purpose.
The brief was to introduce a new sports kit to coincide with the opening of a state of the art sports hall and appointment of new director of sport Adam Izzard to strengthen the school’s sporting record and image.
They turned to GFORCE from Gymphlex, one of their existing suppliers, recognising this cutting edge brand as one of the only collections on the market that would enable them to create the perfect kit for them.
Shop development manager Jo Hills comments on what attracted her to GFORCE: “I first became aware of GFORCE when I visited the Schoolwear Show two years ago.
“Having been familiar with the Gymphlex brand, which we already stocked in the on-site school shop, I was keen to see their new GFORCE range when I visited their stand.
“GFORCE jumped out as the only brand at the show that had moved with the times and reflected the changing needs of the sports schoolwear market.
“The designs were contemporary and developed to offer improved performance using technical fabrics.
“Being able to see images to our own specifications designed on the stand made it clear this was the range for us. Gymphlex were very helpful in assisting me to identify the perfect selection of garments to meet the requirements of the school.”
Established over 120 years ago, St Lawrence College takes pupils from 3-18, meeting their educational needs from nursery to 6th form.
They now have a range of garments that make up their core kit and can be used for all physical activities the school has to offer, all produced in the school colours of navy and maroon with white as a highlight colour.
For girls: polo shirts, skorts, hoodies and tracksuits.
For boys: rugby/hockey shirts and shorts, polo shirts, hoodies and tracksuits.
St Lawrence College have also selected base layer garments from the Gymphlex Core range.
For further information on Gymphlex and GFORCE call 0116 255 6326 or visit http://www.gforcesportswear.co.uk
PUMA Golf launches the Faas Lite
PUMA Golf has officially announced the release of the Faas Lite, an extremely lightweight and waterproof golf shoe.
A combination of FaasFoam+ (a proprietary blend of foam and rubber that is 25 per cent lighter than previous foams) and lightweight materials in the lining package and tongue create an extremely light and comfortable shoe that weighs just 8.7oz.
Microfibre leather with stormCELL provides super lightweight performance and waterproof protection.
Zero heel-to-toe drop, corrugated flex grooves and SmartQuill traction technology is found to deliver a lightweight, performance golf shoe.
The lightweight technology is packed with unquestionable style in three colourways - white/vibrant orange, white/black/brilliant blue and clack/castle rock.
All styles come with two laces, one tonal and one pop colour for golfers to customise their footwear look.
The Faas Lite Women’s have all the same features and benefits as the men’s version, but weigh in even lighter at 7oz and 5.5oz respectively.
Women can choose from two colourways - white/PUMA silver/virtual pink and black/white/virtual pink.
PUMA Golf will also be releasing a limited edition version, the Faas Lite Splatter.
Taking inspiration from Rickie Fowler’s ‘Golf Art’ in 2010 and the graphic designs on COBRA Golf’s AMP CELL line of products, the Faas Lite Splatter features paint splatter designs on a white outsole with an orange formstripe.
For more information visit puma.com/golf
A combination of FaasFoam+ (a proprietary blend of foam and rubber that is 25 per cent lighter than previous foams) and lightweight materials in the lining package and tongue create an extremely light and comfortable shoe that weighs just 8.7oz.
Microfibre leather with stormCELL provides super lightweight performance and waterproof protection.
Zero heel-to-toe drop, corrugated flex grooves and SmartQuill traction technology is found to deliver a lightweight, performance golf shoe.
The lightweight technology is packed with unquestionable style in three colourways - white/vibrant orange, white/black/brilliant blue and clack/castle rock.
All styles come with two laces, one tonal and one pop colour for golfers to customise their footwear look.
The Faas Lite Women’s have all the same features and benefits as the men’s version, but weigh in even lighter at 7oz and 5.5oz respectively.
Women can choose from two colourways - white/PUMA silver/virtual pink and black/white/virtual pink.
PUMA Golf will also be releasing a limited edition version, the Faas Lite Splatter.
Taking inspiration from Rickie Fowler’s ‘Golf Art’ in 2010 and the graphic designs on COBRA Golf’s AMP CELL line of products, the Faas Lite Splatter features paint splatter designs on a white outsole with an orange formstripe.
For more information visit puma.com/golf
ASICS signs Wimbledon doubles champion
Wimbledon doubles champion Jonny Marray (pictured) will represent ASICS as a UK tennis ambassador for the remainder of 2013.
Last year Marray became the first Briton to win the Wimbledon Men’s Doubles Championship in 76 years.
He is currently ranked world number 15 and British number one in men’s doubles.
“We are delighted that Jonny will be joining our team of ambassadors as he fits perfectly with our company values as a true sports performance brand,” says Barry Mellis, ASICS managing director UK & Ireland.
“The exceptional levels of determination he has shown throughout his career perfectly complements the commitment ASICS has made to drive the growth of our brand in tennis.”
Last year Marray became the first Briton to win the Wimbledon Men’s Doubles Championship in 76 years.
He is currently ranked world number 15 and British number one in men’s doubles.
“We are delighted that Jonny will be joining our team of ambassadors as he fits perfectly with our company values as a true sports performance brand,” says Barry Mellis, ASICS managing director UK & Ireland.
“The exceptional levels of determination he has shown throughout his career perfectly complements the commitment ASICS has made to drive the growth of our brand in tennis.”
Spalding signs five year apparel deal with the British Basketball League
Spalding has signed a deal to be the official apparel provider to the British Basketball League for the next five years.
The agreement begins from the start of the 2013-14 season, when all BBL clubs will play in Spalding apparel.
“We are delighted to announce another step towards increased brand penetration within the UK basketball marketplace for Spalding and for the BBL to join our extensive roster of leagues and teams around Europe wearing our apparel,” says Paul Sherratt, the Spalding country manager for UK & Ireland.
Alongside Spalding, RJM Sports of Falkirk will be servicing the agreement, operating as the intermediary between Spalding and all the BBL teams.
RJM will provide a full embellishment and fulfilment service as well as a wider range of merchandise items.
“This partnership underlines our continued commitment to basketball and we look forward to working closely with Spalding and the BBL to deliver an exciting programme,” says Robert Marshall, managing director of RJM Sports.
BBL chairman Paul Blake underlined the significance of the arrangement by explaining: “This kind of extensive deal with an established company like Spalding is just the latest in a long line of exciting developments for BBL and one more reason to be satisfied that we continue to move in the right direction - and with real purpose.
"Having all of our member clubs playing in Spalding apparel will reinforce that professional edge and visually exude the uniformity and collective desire of the clubs and the league to continue developing and enhancing our product for fans.”
BBL commercial director David Leyden Dunbar was also quick to point out the benefits of the deal and how important it was to be working with a company who has such a distinguished tradition and reputation.
He says: "For over 130 years Spalding has been a leader in innovation and quality, a brand synonymous with basketball.
"We are thrilled to be entering into this long term partnership with a global brand who have clearly demonstrated their commitment to the league and share our plans for the future.
"Since taking up the post during October of last year, my intention has always been to significantly alter the commercial landscape of the BBL and I'm pleased to confirm that our new partnership with Spalding is just the first in a series of announcements that we'll be making as momentum builds towards the start of the new season in September."
The deal will also give all BBL clubs an opportunity to offer high quality replica apparel to their supporters.
The agreement begins from the start of the 2013-14 season, when all BBL clubs will play in Spalding apparel.
“We are delighted to announce another step towards increased brand penetration within the UK basketball marketplace for Spalding and for the BBL to join our extensive roster of leagues and teams around Europe wearing our apparel,” says Paul Sherratt, the Spalding country manager for UK & Ireland.
Alongside Spalding, RJM Sports of Falkirk will be servicing the agreement, operating as the intermediary between Spalding and all the BBL teams.
RJM will provide a full embellishment and fulfilment service as well as a wider range of merchandise items.
“This partnership underlines our continued commitment to basketball and we look forward to working closely with Spalding and the BBL to deliver an exciting programme,” says Robert Marshall, managing director of RJM Sports.
BBL chairman Paul Blake underlined the significance of the arrangement by explaining: “This kind of extensive deal with an established company like Spalding is just the latest in a long line of exciting developments for BBL and one more reason to be satisfied that we continue to move in the right direction - and with real purpose.
"Having all of our member clubs playing in Spalding apparel will reinforce that professional edge and visually exude the uniformity and collective desire of the clubs and the league to continue developing and enhancing our product for fans.”
BBL commercial director David Leyden Dunbar was also quick to point out the benefits of the deal and how important it was to be working with a company who has such a distinguished tradition and reputation.
He says: "For over 130 years Spalding has been a leader in innovation and quality, a brand synonymous with basketball.
"We are thrilled to be entering into this long term partnership with a global brand who have clearly demonstrated their commitment to the league and share our plans for the future.
"Since taking up the post during October of last year, my intention has always been to significantly alter the commercial landscape of the BBL and I'm pleased to confirm that our new partnership with Spalding is just the first in a series of announcements that we'll be making as momentum builds towards the start of the new season in September."
The deal will also give all BBL clubs an opportunity to offer high quality replica apparel to their supporters.
Spalding signs five year apparel deal with the British Basketball League
Spalding has signed a deal to be the official apparel provider to the British Basketball League for the next five years.
This agreement begins from the start of the 2013-14 season, when all BBL clubs will play in Spalding apparel.
“We are delighted to announce another step towards increased brand penetration within the UK basketball marketplace for Spalding and for the BBL to join our extensive roster of leagues and teams around Europe wearing our apparel,” says Paul Sherratt, the Spalding country manager for UK & Ireland.
Alongside Spalding, RJM Sports of Falkirk will be servicing the agreement, operating as the intermediary between Spalding and all the BBL teams.
RJM will provide a full embellishment and fulfilment service as well as a wider range of merchandise items.
“This partnership underlines our continued commitment to basketball and we look forward to working closely with Spalding and the BBL to deliver an exciting programme,” says Robert Marshall, managing director of RJM Sports.
BBL chairman Paul Blake underlined the significance of the arrangement by explaining: “This kind of extensive deal with an established company like Spalding is just the latest in a long line of exciting developments for BBL and one more reason to be satisfied that we continue to move in the right direction - and with real purpose.
"Having all of our member clubs playing in Spalding apparel will reinforce that professional edge and visually exude the uniformity and collective desire of the clubs and the league to continue developing and enhancing our product for fans.”
BBL commercial director David Leyden Dunbar was also quick to point out the benefits of the deal and how important it was to be working with a company who has such a distinguished tradition and reputation.
He says: "For over 130 years Spalding has been a leader in innovation and quality, a brand synonymous with basketball.
"We are thrilled to be entering into this long term partnership with a global brand who have clearly demonstrated their commitment to the league and share our plans for the future.
"Since taking up the post during October of last year, my intention has always been to significantly alter the commercial landscape of the BBL and I'm pleased to confirm that our new partnership with Spalding is just the first in a series of announcements that we'll be making as momentum builds towards the start of the new season in September."
The deal will also give all BBL clubs an opportunity to offer high quality replica apparel to their supporters.
This agreement begins from the start of the 2013-14 season, when all BBL clubs will play in Spalding apparel.
“We are delighted to announce another step towards increased brand penetration within the UK basketball marketplace for Spalding and for the BBL to join our extensive roster of leagues and teams around Europe wearing our apparel,” says Paul Sherratt, the Spalding country manager for UK & Ireland.
Alongside Spalding, RJM Sports of Falkirk will be servicing the agreement, operating as the intermediary between Spalding and all the BBL teams.
RJM will provide a full embellishment and fulfilment service as well as a wider range of merchandise items.
“This partnership underlines our continued commitment to basketball and we look forward to working closely with Spalding and the BBL to deliver an exciting programme,” says Robert Marshall, managing director of RJM Sports.
BBL chairman Paul Blake underlined the significance of the arrangement by explaining: “This kind of extensive deal with an established company like Spalding is just the latest in a long line of exciting developments for BBL and one more reason to be satisfied that we continue to move in the right direction - and with real purpose.
"Having all of our member clubs playing in Spalding apparel will reinforce that professional edge and visually exude the uniformity and collective desire of the clubs and the league to continue developing and enhancing our product for fans.”
BBL commercial director David Leyden Dunbar was also quick to point out the benefits of the deal and how important it was to be working with a company who has such a distinguished tradition and reputation.
He says: "For over 130 years Spalding has been a leader in innovation and quality, a brand synonymous with basketball.
"We are thrilled to be entering into this long term partnership with a global brand who have clearly demonstrated their commitment to the league and share our plans for the future.
"Since taking up the post during October of last year, my intention has always been to significantly alter the commercial landscape of the BBL and I'm pleased to confirm that our new partnership with Spalding is just the first in a series of announcements that we'll be making as momentum builds towards the start of the new season in September."
The deal will also give all BBL clubs an opportunity to offer high quality replica apparel to their supporters.
Spalding signs five year apparel deal with the British Basketball League
Spalding has signed a deal to be the official apparel provider to the British Basketball League for the next five years.
The agreement begins from the start of the 2013-14 season, when all BBL clubs will play in Spalding kit.
“We are delighted to announce another step towards increased brand penetration within the UK basketball marketplace for Spalding and for the BBL to join our extensive roster of leagues and teams around Europe wearing our apparel,” says Paul Sherratt, Spalding country manager for UK & Ireland.
Alongside Spalding, RJM Sports of Falkirk will be servicing the agreement, operating as the intermediary between Spalding and all the BBL teams.
RJM will provide a full embellishment and fulfilment service, as well as a range of merchandise items.
“This partnership underlines our continued commitment to basketball and we look forward to working closely with Spalding and the BBL to deliver an exciting programme,” says Robert Marshall, managing director of RJM Sports.
BBL chairman Paul Blake underlined the significance of the arrangement by explaining: “This kind of extensive deal with an established company like Spalding is just the latest in a long line of exciting developments for BBL and one more reason to be satisfied that we continue to move in the right direction - and with real purpose.
"Having all of our member clubs playing in Spalding apparel will reinforce that professional edge and visually exude the uniformity and collective desire of the clubs and the league to continue developing and enhancing our product for fans.”
BBL commercial director David Leyden Dunbar was also quick to point out the benefits of the deal and how important it was to be working with a company who has such a distinguished tradition and reputation.
He says: "For over 130 years Spalding has been a leader in innovation and quality, a brand synonymous with basketball.
"We are thrilled to be entering into this long term partnership with a global brand who have clearly demonstrated their commitment to the league and share our plans for the future.
"Since taking up the post during October of last year, my intention has always been to significantly alter the commercial landscape of the BBL and I'm pleased to confirm that our new partnership with Spalding is just the first in a series of announcements that we'll be making as momentum builds towards the start of the new season in September."
The deal will also give all BBL clubs an opportunity to offer high quality replica apparel to their supporters.
The agreement begins from the start of the 2013-14 season, when all BBL clubs will play in Spalding kit.
“We are delighted to announce another step towards increased brand penetration within the UK basketball marketplace for Spalding and for the BBL to join our extensive roster of leagues and teams around Europe wearing our apparel,” says Paul Sherratt, Spalding country manager for UK & Ireland.
Alongside Spalding, RJM Sports of Falkirk will be servicing the agreement, operating as the intermediary between Spalding and all the BBL teams.
RJM will provide a full embellishment and fulfilment service, as well as a range of merchandise items.
“This partnership underlines our continued commitment to basketball and we look forward to working closely with Spalding and the BBL to deliver an exciting programme,” says Robert Marshall, managing director of RJM Sports.
BBL chairman Paul Blake underlined the significance of the arrangement by explaining: “This kind of extensive deal with an established company like Spalding is just the latest in a long line of exciting developments for BBL and one more reason to be satisfied that we continue to move in the right direction - and with real purpose.
"Having all of our member clubs playing in Spalding apparel will reinforce that professional edge and visually exude the uniformity and collective desire of the clubs and the league to continue developing and enhancing our product for fans.”
BBL commercial director David Leyden Dunbar was also quick to point out the benefits of the deal and how important it was to be working with a company who has such a distinguished tradition and reputation.
He says: "For over 130 years Spalding has been a leader in innovation and quality, a brand synonymous with basketball.
"We are thrilled to be entering into this long term partnership with a global brand who have clearly demonstrated their commitment to the league and share our plans for the future.
"Since taking up the post during October of last year, my intention has always been to significantly alter the commercial landscape of the BBL and I'm pleased to confirm that our new partnership with Spalding is just the first in a series of announcements that we'll be making as momentum builds towards the start of the new season in September."
The deal will also give all BBL clubs an opportunity to offer high quality replica apparel to their supporters.
Zoggs continues nationwide initiative to get kids in the pool
In an effort to get even more children adopting a healthy lifestyle and involved in aquatic sports, Zoggs has confirmed its popular Oceans of Fun days will continue throughout 2013 and into 2014.
The brand is once again teaming up with Total Swimming, set up by Olympian Steve Parry, to run the events across the country.
Each one provides up to 150 free spaces for children aged 7 to 14 to experience different aquatic sports such as mini water polo, synchronised swimming and fast swimming.
The event will feature a morning or afternoon of skills and games across the different aquatic disciplines, with every participant getting the chance to try each of the activities by rotating through the stations.
An Olympic or Commonwealth athlete, an expert in the discipline who will provide instruction and encourage the children, will lead each station.
The athletes will be introduced at the beginning of the event and the children - and their families - will have the opportunity to meet the Olympians outside of the pool for autographs, photos and the showing of Olympic and Commonwealth medals.
Each child will receive a Zoggs Oceans of Fun swimming hat and be presented with a medal at the end of the event - after having the chance to race against an Olympian
David Annand, Zoggs’ marketing and PR manager, says: “For us, this is about introducing aquatic sports that many children will not have had the chance to experience.
“By teaming up with Steve and his team and working with our leisure partners to put on these events and open them up to so many children, we hope to not only inspire and educate everyone who comes along, but for them to experience just how much fun the pool can be.
“Success for us will be seeing the children who take part continue enjoying the freedom, fun and skills regular swimming and aquatic sports can bring.
“This is an extremely exciting initiative for everyone at Zoggs and we look forward to sharing our passion for swimming with thousands of children across the country.”
The brand is once again teaming up with Total Swimming, set up by Olympian Steve Parry, to run the events across the country.
Each one provides up to 150 free spaces for children aged 7 to 14 to experience different aquatic sports such as mini water polo, synchronised swimming and fast swimming.
The event will feature a morning or afternoon of skills and games across the different aquatic disciplines, with every participant getting the chance to try each of the activities by rotating through the stations.
An Olympic or Commonwealth athlete, an expert in the discipline who will provide instruction and encourage the children, will lead each station.
The athletes will be introduced at the beginning of the event and the children - and their families - will have the opportunity to meet the Olympians outside of the pool for autographs, photos and the showing of Olympic and Commonwealth medals.
Each child will receive a Zoggs Oceans of Fun swimming hat and be presented with a medal at the end of the event - after having the chance to race against an Olympian
David Annand, Zoggs’ marketing and PR manager, says: “For us, this is about introducing aquatic sports that many children will not have had the chance to experience.
“By teaming up with Steve and his team and working with our leisure partners to put on these events and open them up to so many children, we hope to not only inspire and educate everyone who comes along, but for them to experience just how much fun the pool can be.
“Success for us will be seeing the children who take part continue enjoying the freedom, fun and skills regular swimming and aquatic sports can bring.
“This is an extremely exciting initiative for everyone at Zoggs and we look forward to sharing our passion for swimming with thousands of children across the country.”
Sales Agency looking for Major Brands
25 years of experience in the Sporting Goods & Leisure industry
Optimum Sport endorsed rugby players nominated for national and European awards
Three of Optimum Sport’s sponsored rugby players have been nominated for major awards.
Steve Borthwick (Saracens) and Akapusi Qera (Gloucester) have been shortlisted for the Aviva Premiership Player of the Year 2013, while Julian Bonnaire is in the running for European Player of the Year.
Based in Wigan, Optimum has been providing specialist sports protection to the rugby market for over 17 years.
“We are all delighted with the nominations for our endorsed players and wish them the best of luck for the announcement in May,” says Sean Deane, Optimum’s sales and operations manager.
“A definition of Optimum in the dictionary is ‘that which is best’ and this goes to prove that the same is paramount in our choice of endorsed Optimum players, who are the best of the best.”
All the nominated players are currently wearing the Optimum Blitz Extreme range.
Steve Borthwick (Saracens) and Akapusi Qera (Gloucester) have been shortlisted for the Aviva Premiership Player of the Year 2013, while Julian Bonnaire is in the running for European Player of the Year.
Based in Wigan, Optimum has been providing specialist sports protection to the rugby market for over 17 years.
“We are all delighted with the nominations for our endorsed players and wish them the best of luck for the announcement in May,” says Sean Deane, Optimum’s sales and operations manager.
“A definition of Optimum in the dictionary is ‘that which is best’ and this goes to prove that the same is paramount in our choice of endorsed Optimum players, who are the best of the best.”
All the nominated players are currently wearing the Optimum Blitz Extreme range.
From bricks to clicks
At a time of economic uncertainty, online sales seem to be recession proof in the UK sports market and have carried on growing apace over the past few years.
When in 2008 the UK entered into recession, sports footwear and apparel sales - excluding online - declined by seven per cent. In contrast, during the same year internet sales grew 25 per cent, according to NPD’s Online Consumer Panel. Interestingly, although consumers’ main preoccupation during this period was to buy cheap items, an increasing number of them chose to purchase online, which on average costs more than buying at a bricks and mortar store.
Popular
Internet shopping has become increasingly popular over the years due to its convenience and, according to the Office for National Statistics, 67 per cent of adults bought goods or services online in 2012, up from 53 per cent in 2008.
Internet shopping represented 18 per cent of total sports market revenues in 2012, compared to 11 per cent in 2008. Each share point gained over the past five years represents an additional £45 million of online spending on sports items, according to NPD’s Online Consumer Panel.
Who have been the main beneficiaries of the growth in internet shopping? Over the past five years the online retail landscape has changed considerably. Today brands such as Nike and adidas are not just relying on their retail partners to sell their products online, instead they’ve embarked on campaigns to drive more sales through their own websites.
High street retailers have diversified into online shopping, which has been their market growth engine, allowing them to either compensate for low sales in-store or reinforce strong results on the high street with significant online sales. Bricks and mortar retailers that have also developed successful online operations have increased pressure on internet only stores and mail order companies, which have lost market share year on year since 2008.
Diversification
One of the best examples of this type of diversification has been Sports Direct. The Sportsdirect.com domain name was acquired in April 2006 and from 2007 the stores that traded under the Sports World and Sports Soccer fascias have been renamed as Sportsdirect.com. With 350 stores branded in this way, the website has benefited from an increasing recognition of the online brand.
The website’s homepage priority is unsurprisingly focused on discounted products displayed via rotating images. Furthermore, a sense of urgency is created through time sensitive offers such as daily or weekly deals and by the presence of countdown clocks that show the time remaining before a particular sale ends. This strategy has proven to be a very successful customer call to action.
Sports Direct’s online revenues increased by 82 per cent to £174 million during its financial year ended April 29, 2012. It will be interesting to see if this income stream continues to grow following the demise of JJB.
Behaviour
The vast majority of sports items are still purchased in-store, but for many consumers the buying process starts hours or days before their store visit. For the majority, the purchasing behaviour process has become more complex and involves both online and bricks and mortar stores.
Prior to an in-store purchase, many people go online looking for recommendations or reviews about products, brands or retailers and determine what they are prepared to buy. They already have a good knowledge of the characteristics of the products on the shelves in-store and some consumers visit bricks and mortar retailers just to make their purchases.
Conversely, online shopping is sometimes preceded by an in-store visit, allowing consumers to see and try out items before they buy. This trend of testing products in-store to buy later online, sometimes from another retailer, will probably increase in the future. High street retailers will operate more as showrooms and will need to adapt as ecommerce sales continue to rise.
The NPD Group monitors the sale of sports footwear and apparel in many countries around the world. For more information contact the NPD Group sports team on 01932 355580.
When in 2008 the UK entered into recession, sports footwear and apparel sales - excluding online - declined by seven per cent. In contrast, during the same year internet sales grew 25 per cent, according to NPD’s Online Consumer Panel. Interestingly, although consumers’ main preoccupation during this period was to buy cheap items, an increasing number of them chose to purchase online, which on average costs more than buying at a bricks and mortar store.
Popular
Internet shopping has become increasingly popular over the years due to its convenience and, according to the Office for National Statistics, 67 per cent of adults bought goods or services online in 2012, up from 53 per cent in 2008.
Internet shopping represented 18 per cent of total sports market revenues in 2012, compared to 11 per cent in 2008. Each share point gained over the past five years represents an additional £45 million of online spending on sports items, according to NPD’s Online Consumer Panel.
Who have been the main beneficiaries of the growth in internet shopping? Over the past five years the online retail landscape has changed considerably. Today brands such as Nike and adidas are not just relying on their retail partners to sell their products online, instead they’ve embarked on campaigns to drive more sales through their own websites.
High street retailers have diversified into online shopping, which has been their market growth engine, allowing them to either compensate for low sales in-store or reinforce strong results on the high street with significant online sales. Bricks and mortar retailers that have also developed successful online operations have increased pressure on internet only stores and mail order companies, which have lost market share year on year since 2008.
Diversification
One of the best examples of this type of diversification has been Sports Direct. The Sportsdirect.com domain name was acquired in April 2006 and from 2007 the stores that traded under the Sports World and Sports Soccer fascias have been renamed as Sportsdirect.com. With 350 stores branded in this way, the website has benefited from an increasing recognition of the online brand.
The website’s homepage priority is unsurprisingly focused on discounted products displayed via rotating images. Furthermore, a sense of urgency is created through time sensitive offers such as daily or weekly deals and by the presence of countdown clocks that show the time remaining before a particular sale ends. This strategy has proven to be a very successful customer call to action.
Sports Direct’s online revenues increased by 82 per cent to £174 million during its financial year ended April 29, 2012. It will be interesting to see if this income stream continues to grow following the demise of JJB.
Behaviour
The vast majority of sports items are still purchased in-store, but for many consumers the buying process starts hours or days before their store visit. For the majority, the purchasing behaviour process has become more complex and involves both online and bricks and mortar stores.
Prior to an in-store purchase, many people go online looking for recommendations or reviews about products, brands or retailers and determine what they are prepared to buy. They already have a good knowledge of the characteristics of the products on the shelves in-store and some consumers visit bricks and mortar retailers just to make their purchases.
Conversely, online shopping is sometimes preceded by an in-store visit, allowing consumers to see and try out items before they buy. This trend of testing products in-store to buy later online, sometimes from another retailer, will probably increase in the future. High street retailers will operate more as showrooms and will need to adapt as ecommerce sales continue to rise.
The NPD Group monitors the sale of sports footwear and apparel in many countries around the world. For more information contact the NPD Group sports team on 01932 355580.
Ronhill sponsored clubs shine at the national and regional 12 stage road relays
Ronhill sponsored clubs were in full force in the National Road Relay Championships in Sutton Park on April 13-14, which incorporated the regional championships into the final results.
The first medal of the day came in the senior women’s event, with Aldershot Farnham & District claiming gold.
The six stage team, including Olympic athlete Steph Twell, built on their success last year by taking the title by nearly five minutes.
Highlighting the depth of the AFD squad, the B team finished in second place.
Team manager Mike Neighbour says: “We are all delighted by the performances - even by AFD’s high standards, Saturday April 13 will rank as outstanding.”
The Bristol & West team had great runs to finish in third place overall, which meant they claimed gold in the Midland region category.
In the senior men’s race, Leeds City AC fell short of gold by the narrowest of margins.
The Yorkshire club led after leg 10, but were pushed back into second on leg 11 by Belgrave Harriers.
Going into the 12th and final leg, Belgrave had a lead of 43 seconds, which was challenged by Joe Townsend, but in the end proved too great a gap to close.
Belgrave hung on by 16 seconds in a time of 4 hrs 12mins 54 seconds.
Leeds claimed the national silver and northern gold medal.
Bristol & West finished well in seventh place and were rewarded with the Midland silver medal, 18 seconds ahead of Tipton in eighth and Midland bronze medallists.
The first medal of the day came in the senior women’s event, with Aldershot Farnham & District claiming gold.
The six stage team, including Olympic athlete Steph Twell, built on their success last year by taking the title by nearly five minutes.
Highlighting the depth of the AFD squad, the B team finished in second place.
Team manager Mike Neighbour says: “We are all delighted by the performances - even by AFD’s high standards, Saturday April 13 will rank as outstanding.”
The Bristol & West team had great runs to finish in third place overall, which meant they claimed gold in the Midland region category.
In the senior men’s race, Leeds City AC fell short of gold by the narrowest of margins.
The Yorkshire club led after leg 10, but were pushed back into second on leg 11 by Belgrave Harriers.
Going into the 12th and final leg, Belgrave had a lead of 43 seconds, which was challenged by Joe Townsend, but in the end proved too great a gap to close.
Belgrave hung on by 16 seconds in a time of 4 hrs 12mins 54 seconds.
Leeds claimed the national silver and northern gold medal.
Bristol & West finished well in seventh place and were rewarded with the Midland silver medal, 18 seconds ahead of Tipton in eighth and Midland bronze medallists.
AfterShokz joins STAG
Award winning sport headphones brand confirmed as latest supplier
AfterShokz joins STAG
Award winning sport headphones brand confirmed as latest supplier
Sports Direct sales rise demonstrates ‘resilience of our business model’, according to CEO
Sports Direct sales for the nine weeks to March 31 were up 14.3 per cent to £317.4 million, while gross profit rose 22.7 per cent to £128.6 million.
Sports retail sales and pre-tax profit increased 13.6 per cent and 22.7 per cent respectively.
"The strength of this performance during the nine week period continues to demonstrate the resilience of our business model, especially in the UK,” says Dave Forsey, chief executive of Sports Direct.
“Within our sports division, online sales now represent circa 15 per cent of total sports retail sales.”
As all targets under the 2009 bonus share scheme have been met, around 2,000 employees will receive 75 per cent of their basic salaries in shares in August.
Sports retail sales and pre-tax profit increased 13.6 per cent and 22.7 per cent respectively.
"The strength of this performance during the nine week period continues to demonstrate the resilience of our business model, especially in the UK,” says Dave Forsey, chief executive of Sports Direct.
“Within our sports division, online sales now represent circa 15 per cent of total sports retail sales.”
As all targets under the 2009 bonus share scheme have been met, around 2,000 employees will receive 75 per cent of their basic salaries in shares in August.
