Mikasa Sports USA, Inc. will begin making volleyballs and volleyball accessories under an exclusive license from Cherokee Inc.'s Sideout brand.
Detailed terms of the multi-year agreement were not disclosed. Founded in Hiroshima, Japan, Mikasa Sports has been creating and perfecting volleyballs for over 89 years. In 1973, Mikasa arrived in California, setting up headquarters in order to better satisfy the demand of North American athletes and to build upon its strong reputation as a leader in the game of volleyball.
“We are excited to collaborate with The Cherokee Group to further develop and enhance their strategy for its Sideout brand,” said Doug Flood, general manager, Mikasa Sports USA. “Sideout is arguably the most well known brand name in volleyball and we believe that there is tremendous opportunity to capitalize on its almost 30 years of brand equity. We look forward to having product in the market within the next twelve months.”
In coming months the two companies will be working on many initiatives, including grass-roots programs at various local levels.
“We look forward to much success together,” said Cherokee President and COO Howard Siegel. “This partnership builds upon our global vision for Sideout and enhances our other domestic and international partnerships including Bolderway in China and our newest Sideout partner, Soriana in Mexico.”
