STOCKPORT’S CANTERBURY KIT MAKER TO SUPPLY IRISH RUGBY FOOTBALL UNION

A multi million Euro deal unites two huge brands until 2020 as leading sports clothing brand ‘Canterbury of New Zealand’ has been announced as the new kit supplier to the Irish Rugby Football Union.

Housed in Houldsworth Mill, Stockport, the new multi-million euro deal announced today unites the two brands from 1st September 2014 for six years until 2020, including two World Cup tournaments.

Since its establishment in 1904 Canterbury has expanded to become the world’s largest rugby apparel brand and is the official kit supplier of six rugby nations including England, Russia, Spain, Japan, USA and now Ireland. Bringing over a century of experience to the table, Canterbury will team up with the IRFU for the second time since their inaugural partnership which ran from 2000 until 2009.

Canterbury will work closely with the IRFU management and international players to produce match day, training and bench wear for the national squad as well as all junior and underage teams including the O2 Irish Wolfhounds, Under 20’s and Women’s national side. Official Canterbury IRFU merchandise will be sold through all major sports retailers and online from autumn 2014.

Chris Stephenson, Canterbury CEO, added:

“In the IRFU we have found a partner with shared values, a shared heritage and a shared focus and ambition to succeed at the pinnacle of our disciplines. These mutual traits were paramount in our decision to join forces and share in what we believe will be a truly exciting journey for Irish Rugby, most particularly the supporters, and Canterbury through the next two Rugby World Cups.”

Commenting Joe Schmidt, Irish Head Coach, said:
“I’m delighted to have Canterbury partnering with Ireland in our upcoming World Cup cycle. I’ve worked with Canterbury in the past and have always been impressed by the quality and innovation they bring to the table. “

Left: Pat Fitzgerald, President IRFU on the right with Canterbury’s Chris Stephenson

Pat said:

“I’d like to welcome Canterbury into the Irish Rugby family as we journey towards the 2015 Rugby World Cup. Having the backing of the world’s top rugby apparel brand is testament to the strength of the Irish Rugby brand and reflects positively on the progressive steps being taken to ensure that we cement our position at the top of world rugby.”