Darren Rovell · @darrenrovell
12th Oct 2010 from Twitlonger
Full Adidas statement on Reebok losing NFL rights: "Reebok has enjoyed a long and very successful NFL partnership. Over the last decade, we have revolutionized and modernized the sports licensing business, introducing new fan categories, retail formats and new uniform technologies, en route to more than doubling the size of the NFL’s former licensed sales. We are extremely proud of what we have been able to accomplish together.
The Sports Licensed Division (SLD), which Reebok created to service the NFL and other league partners, is now the licensed apparel and headwear arm of The adidas Group. SLD, which includes both the Reebok and adidas brands, will continue to focus on our other league partners such as the NHL, an important Reebok partner, as well as the NBA, MLB, MLS, and our NCAA universities, as well as further supporting our branded and team businesses. SLD remains committed to bringing athletes and fans the best uniforms, apparel and headwear.
The Reebok brand is enjoying great success in the marketplace with innovative products such as EasyTone and ZigTech. Reebok’s sales grew by 16% worldwide in the last quarter and an even more impressive 30% in North America. This growth trend will continue in the remaining quarters of 2010 and beyond."