HanesBrands and the University of Michigan announced a multiyear extension to its current apparel partnership that gives HBI exclusive rights to design, manufacture and distribute Wolverine fanwear in the mass retail channel.
The University of Michigan joins Clemson, Auburn, Penn State, N.C. State, and more than two dozen other colleges and universities with exclusive mass channel retail partnerships with HBI.
“Michigan is a powerhouse in every way, on the field and in the classroom, and has one of the largest alumni networks in the world,” said John Fryer, HanesBrands president, licensed sports apparel. “As consumer-driven leaders in the apparel industry, our Champion and Hanes brands drive purchase across the retail spectrum. We’re proud to leverage these brands and others in our long-term commitment to provide quality, responsibly made fanwear to Wolverine students, alums and fans.”
The extension follows a detailed analysis of the University of Michigan trademark licensing program and a competitive proposal process completed with the University’s licensing agent, CLC. In addition to these exclusive programs, Michigan will continue its partnership with Nike as the provider of performance product and specific fan merchandise.
“As we head toward the opening kickoff of football season, there’s a lot of momentum for Wolverine apparel following the team’s outstanding performance last year—winning the Big Ten title and finishing the year ranked No. 3,” said Fryer. “We expect to see a lot of Champion apparel in maize and blue.”
