IRFU And PUMA Announce Partnership
The IRFU and Puma have agreed a new eight-year partnership deal, starting at the beginning of the 2009/10 season, that enables the leading sport lifestyle brand to become the official supplier and licensee of replica merchandise for Irish rugby.
Philip Browne, Chief Executive of the Irish Rugby Football Union, said: “The IRFU is delighted to enter into this relationship with Puma, an organisation, we feel, that not only understands rugby supporters but also has a proven track record in the sport.
“As a truly global iconic brand, Puma is an ideal partner with the experience and ability to communicate with many consumer groups which we are confident will help us to secure the future of Irish rugby not only at the top level but right down into the grassroots of our game.
“With all of its proven technical experience, innovative product design and development and support systems, we are very excited about the future with Puma and we look forward to a very successful partnership.”
Jochen Zeitz, chairman and CEO of Puma, was equally satisfied. He said: “This is a fantastic opportunity for Puma and we are thrilled to announce our partnership with the Irish Rugby Football Union – one of the world’s leading rugby teams.
“Their global reach, passion, heritage and dynamism match the Puma brand perfectly.
“This long-term strategic partnership underlines Puma’s reinforced commitment to further strengthen its position as one of the leading sport lifestyle brands.”