New Zealand Rugby and Fanatics, two powerhouses in sports, have joined forces in a monumental partnership that is set to revolutionize the world of rugby merchandise. The collaboration between the iconic New Zealand Rugby teams and the acclaimed digital sports platform Fanatics promises a wide array of officially licensed merchandise for fans of the All Blacks, Black Ferns, and more, on a global scale.
This long-term partnership is not just a fleeting commitment – it extends through significant rugby events like the 2027 Men’s Rugby World Cup and the 2025 and 2029 Women’s Rugby World Cups, ensuring fans will have access to top-notch merchandise for years to come. The deal includes exclusive rights for Fanatics to manage New Zealand Rugby’s official eCommerce store, providing fans with a seamless shopping experience whether they are in New Zealand stadiums or browsing online from across the world.
Fanatics, known for its global reach and top-tier products, will play a central role in creating and distributing a diverse range of merchandise, from jerseys to training wear and beyond. With offices and manufacturing facilities spread across 80 locations and shipping to over 180 countries, the partnership aims to enhance the visibility of the All Blacks and Black Ferns, particularly in key markets like North America and Asia.
The master licensee for New Zealand Rugby consumer products, Fanatics will use its expertise and in-house manufacturing capabilities to cater to the diverse tastes of fans, offering a unique and premium selection of merchandise that has never been seen before. Craig Fenton, Chief Executive at New Zealand Rugby Commercial, expressed excitement about the partnership, emphasizing the opportunity to connect with fans globally and elevate their shopping experience.
Stephen Dowling, President of International at Fanatics, echoed Fenton’s sentiments, highlighting the unparalleled performance and fan engagement of the All Blacks and Black Ferns. The partnership with New Zealand Rugby signifies Fanatics’ commitment to elevating the fan experience and delivering on a global scale, ensuring that fans worldwide can proudly support the Teams in Black.
By aligning with Fanatics, New Zealand Rugby joins an illustrious list of rugby partners, cementing its presence in the global sports merchandise arena alongside prestigious names like the English RFU, Rugby Australia, and the British & Irish Lions. With over 900 partnerships worldwide, Fanatics has established itself as a leader in the sports merchandise industry, catering to fans of various sports and teams, from traditional favorites like the NFL and NBA to global football giants like PSG and Chelsea.
In conclusion, the partnership between New Zealand Rugby and Fanatics signifies a new era of merchandising excellence for the All Blacks and Black Ferns, offering fans an extensive array of merchandise and a seamless shopping experience. Whether you’re a die-hard supporter or a casual fan, this collaboration promises to elevate your fan experience and allow you to show your support for the iconic Teams in Black like never before.
