British outdoor retailer Blacks have signed up to become the National Trust's first national retail partner.
The initial partnership will run until Jan. 31, 2013 with the National Trust and Blacks working together to inspire people to get outdoors and experience the best of British countryside this autumn. The UK's largest chain of outdoor specialty stores, Blacks has been in turnaround mode since January, when it was acquired by JD Sports.
Rod Hebden, Head of Corporate Partnerships at the National Trust, said:
“We're delighted to be teaming up with Blacks. For over 150 years Blacks have been championing the great outdoors, so together we can celebrate the countryside and engage with hundreds of thousands of outdoor enthusiasts.”
Barry Bown, Director of Blacks, said:
“Both the National Trust and Blacks share a passion for the countryside, so this partnership makes perfect sense. We want people to have the best outdoor kit available, in order to help them enjoy their favourite National Trust places all year round, whatever the weather.”
In addition to financially supporting the National Trust's autumn outdoor programme, Blacks will be working closely with National Trust rangers.
Rangers will be invited to test and review Blacks' clothing, footwear and outdoor kit as they carry out their work in the National Trust's parks and gardens, coast and countryside.
Their experiences and passion for the outdoors will be captured and shared both in-store and via Blacks' digital channels, allowing customers to see National Trust rangers and Blacks products in action, in the great outdoors.
National Trust supporters will also benefit from the partnership with an introductory 10% discount for all orders over £50.00, online and in Blacks stores.
