Expanded Apparel Range Key to New 'Classic' Partnership

Heritage jerseys, expanded product ranges, and quick turnarounds are some of the features exciting the five New Zealand Super Rugby Clubs having signed a collective five-year agreement with Australasian apparel brand – Classic.

The appointment comes after a thorough tender process which canvassed over 15 sports apparel brands worldwide.

The partnership will see each club expand their range and offer greater official and supporter apparel options for fans, including the potential of heritage or themed jerseys and a range of training and on-field items.

Classic is an Australasian apparel company which has been manufacturing high-quality sportswear since 1934.

With a strong pedigree across the NRL and partnerships with leading clubs including the South Sydney Rabbitohs and St George Illawarra Dragons, Classic has expertise in technical athletic apparel that is exceptionally constructed.

The New Zealand Super Rugby Clubs are excited about the flexibility and surety that comes with Classic, which has its own factory and an in-house art and design department, and complete control of all production capabilities and the supply chain.

Highlanders CEO, Roger Clark, says it will be great to be able to deliver Super Rugby NZ gear to fans in time for Christmas 2023.

“We know that the Christmas quarter is the biggest in the retail calendar and we look forward to introducing new gear to our fans just in time for the summer holidays.”

The flexibility of Classic also enables the introduction of heritage and special themed jerseys, something which is commonplace in leagues like the NBA and NRL.

Blues CEO, Andrew Hore, says he is impressed with Classic, their heritage, innovative approach and production capability.

“We’ve spoken with a number of clubs across the NRL and also the AFL and Classic’s ability to deliver in full and on time, whilst providing fans with a great range of items really sealed the deal for the New Zealand Super Rugby Clubs.”

Classic Sportswear Managing Director, Warren Carney, says he’s excited to Partner with the five Super Rugby Clubs, the number one sporting code in the New Zealand market.

“As the demonstrated trusted official apparel partner to the NRL’s elite national teams, the Kangaroos, Jillaroos, Indigenous All Stars, NRL Maori All Stars, as well as six of the NRL Clubs South Sydney Rabbitohs, St George Illawarra Dragons, Canterbury Bankstown Bulldogs, NRL Dolphins, Cronulla Sharks, and Newcastle Knights we have significant experience in delivering quality, cutting edge elite sports product.”

“It is this industry-leading experience, coupled with a passion for the wearable technology applied to our on-field kit and our complete commitment to delivering a comprehensive supporter range for rugby fans in New Zealand, that sets Classic apart.”

“At the heart of Classic’s product development strategy is our investment and commitment to creating the Rugby range, specific and bespoke to Rugby requirements, developed and wearer trialed directly and hands-on with both the male and female Rugby athletes.”

“We are looking forward to seeing Classic kit on the Rugby field, the training field, and on Rugby supporters all over New Zealand,” said Warren Carney.

Super Rugby NZ apparel will be available through the Super Rugby Club Stores from December 1, 2023, with all major sporting goods retailers also stocking the product.

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