Russell Brands, LLC, announced it has reached an agreement with the Australian Baseball League (ABL) to be the official on-field uniform of the ABL through 2015. Australian Baseball League teams, which consist of elite national players from across Australia, Japan, Korea, Europe and the United States, will wear Russell Athletic® uniforms beginning in 2012. Under the terms of the agreement, Russell will also be the preferred supplier for all other apparel used by the ABL.
The three-year contract is worth more than $2,000,000 in product, sponsorship and additional benefits.
“To be associated with the premier baseball league in Australia is an honor,” said Gary Barfield, executive vice president, Russell Brands, LLC. “Russell Athletic has a rich history in the sport of baseball, and we’re excited at the opportunity to align with the ABL and outfit players and fans for the upcoming season. We also believe the ABL relationship enhances Russell’s existing business in Australia, which has seen tremendous growth over the last several years.”
In addition to supplying uniforms and apparel, Russell will also receive notable marketing benefits, which include digital advertising inventory on theabl.com/au, promotional opportunities in ABL publications, signage at ABL game venues and rights to sell licensed fan apparel.
“The Australian Baseball League is made up not only of the best baseball players in Australia, but around the world. They deserve to play in top-of-the-line uniforms and apparel, which is why we partnered with Russell Athletic,” said Peter Wermuth, chief executive officer, Australian Baseball League. “Russell provides our players with the uniforms they need to perform at the top of their game, and supplies our fans with the apparel they need to support their favorite teams. We couldn’t be happier to join forces with the brand.”
