Umbro, Official Technical Kit Partner to England Rugby, has a new long-term collaboration to bring its performance apparel expertise to the independent schools’ market exclusively via Schoolblazer.
Umbro has been supplying winning teams for almost a century since its foundation in Manchester in 1924. It kitted out England’s world cup winning squad in 1966 as well as the British Lions in their heyday.
Today, the brand supplies kit to leading top-flight football teams around the world. Plus, men’s and women’s England Rugby teams and as a UK-specific initiative for Williams Formula 1.
Umbro is now working with Schoolblazer; bringing the winning kit from Twickenham to the playing fields of the UK’s leading schools.
Schoolblazer is a leading supplier of clothing to independent schools. Supplying over 180 schools, including over 160 with sportswear, it has built a detailed knowledge of the needs and fit of young people. Schoolblazer will work with Umbro to ensure that its garments work in a school environment and fit today’s body shapes.
Commenting is Michael Scholz, general manager of Umbro in the UK. “Our recent partnership with the RFU has demonstrated our desire to build on Umbro’s unique heritage as one of the UK’s leading sportswear brands. We know how to create garments that help teams to perform. Schoolblazer is the perfect partner. Their deep knowledge of this market and excellent reputation for customer service allows us to focus on the design while they deliver.”
Also commenting on the partnership is Chris Marshall, who recently joined Schoolblazer as sales director from a leading sportswear brand.
“This is a game-changer in this market,” says Marshall. “Historically schools that wanted a major brand had to accept poor delivery and service. Schools can now play in the same kit as England Rugby and be confident that their products will be delivered reliably and on time, thanks to Schoolblazer’s investment in logistics. It’s an exciting time for the industry and an exciting time for schools.”
Umbro Schools will be launching in September 2021 with a full range of team, staff and training kit. However, samples are available now. To find out more please contact umbro@schoolblazer.com.