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Page 1: Rugby World Cup 2015 Supplement

FC_RWC_March2015_MAX_PUBS_TSB_GRID.qxd 12/03/2015 10:27 Page 1

Page 2: Rugby World Cup 2015 Supplement

Contact: James Whitburn ESP Licensing Sports Brand Management Services Pty Ltd, Parkshot House, 5 Kew Road, Richmond TW9 2PR

Office: 0208 3348172 Direct: 0208 3348174 Mobile: 07748498318

RWC 2015 IFC_Layout 1 20/03/2015 16:23 Page 1

Page 3: Rugby World Cup 2015 Supplement

Welcome to this veryspecial Rugby WorldCup 2015 publication

which has been written and producedwith the specific aim of ensuring that no one misses outon the huge potential this Tournament promises!With England as the host nation, an astonishing £1 billionis expected to feed into the UK economy as a result of RWC 2015, building to a crescendo of public fervor for the six week period (September 18-October 31)when the 20 Unions all compete for the coveted Webb Ellis Cup.Be part of it!

RWC 2015

WelcomeWelcomeWelcome

INTRODUCTION

4-56-7

8-9 18-1910-17

3

CONTENTS

While every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this publication was correct at the time of going to press, the publishers cannot accept legal liability for any errors or omissions, nor can they accept responsibility for the standing of advertisers, nor any organisations mentioned in the text.

· Some 4 billion fans are expected to watch the

televised matches

· 20 Unions will compete for the Webb Ellis Cup

· 48 matches in 11 different cities in England & Cardiff

· A wealth of licensed merchandise

· Impressive marketing support for retailers

· Rugby World Cup 2015 in England is set to be the

biggest and best in the history of the Tournament

The big picture Shaun the Sheep’sambassadorial role

Sportfolio’s retailingthrust

The merchandise line-up

ESP’s RWC 2015 team

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Page 4: Rugby World Cup 2015 Supplement

RWC 2015

RETAIL OPPORTUNITIES

CountdownTo Kick-Off

Below: With England as the host nation for RWC2015, the excitement will be enormously potentfor the Tournament, especially as matches will beplayed in 13 different venues in 11 cities.

4

James Whitburn knows a thing or two aboutmajor sporting events, having started hislicensing career with the International Olympic

Committee (working at a senior level with Sochi 2014,London 2012, Vancouver 2010 and Beijing 2008 andthe TOP programme) as well as the 34th Americas Cupyacht race and World Series events, he is in no doubtabout the huge impact Rugby World Cup 2015 is goingto have on the UK population, let alone the world.

“The clamour for the 2.3 million tickets wasextraordinary – they were two or three timesoversubscribed which bodes well for sales. The simplefact that the Tournament spans six weeks, withmatches being played in 13 different stadiums in 11different cities across England and one special stadiumin Wales and involving 20 different competing Unionsmeans that RWC 2015 is on course to be the largestand best Rugby World Cup ever and reaching sportsfans in regions that saw the London 2012 experience,”sums up James, who joined ESP (Master Licensee forthe Tournament) in January 2013.

“We always knew that it would be important tosecure the support from a strong roster of licensees,whose products provide the touchpoints for the wide-ranging fan base – from boys and girls wanting tospend their pocket money on a pin badge marking theevent right through to the global following of Rugbysuperfans looking for that special piece of memorabiliafrom the Tournament, such as a 1:3 scale replica of the

“Prepare to get immersed in Rugby World Cup2015 fever!” James Whitburn, Licensing Directorfor RWC 2015 urges retailers. It’s going to be massive there is no doubt – aheady 4 billion people are expected to watch the six week Tournament (which kicks off onSeptember 18) with the crescendo really starting to build from June when the Webb Ellis Cup (which the 20 competing Unions will be looking to win) tours the UK.With an impressive line-up of licensedmerchandise, full marketing support and some high profile ambassadors to boot, James encourages retailers of all disciplines to join the RWC 2015 scrum!

Inset: James Whitburn at therecent Spring Fair trade show, onthe Ulster Weavers’ stand (hometextiles licensee) where aproduct launch event was heldfor RWC 2015.

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Page 5: Rugby World Cup 2015 Supplement

Webb Ellis Trophy itself.,” reveals James.“So it’s great that we are

working with so many greatlicensing partners, each playingtheir part in making this a veryspecial time in sporting history,”he adds.

James pays tribute to thecommitment from Sportfolio, notonly as a licensee (designing a vastportfolio of different apparelcollections, including Union dual-branded and country-specificitems), but also for instigating andrunning the standalone RWC 2015shops and online ecommerce site.

“Having Sportfolio on board hasbeen invaluable, the sales throughthe physical stores in Oxford Street,Covent Garden and Cardiff storesmonths before the first kick of the Tournament, provesthe sales are there now and reinforces the strength ofpopularity for RWC 2015. This provides extra

reassurance to all retailers looking to getinvolved in this major sporting event,” he said. “E commerce has come a long way since thelast Tournament in 2011 and has been a hugesurprise to the upside in terms of global sales.”

Keen to make it as easy and attractive aspossible for retailers to grasp the opportunities,James assures: “We have at our disposal anintegrated marketing support programme forretailers to tap into, including in-store POSticket promotions and access to unrivalledlevels of advertising activity via our OfficialProgramme publisher: Trinity Mirror Group,and we have even got Shaun the Sheep as a

scrum half - whatsporting eventcan match all that?!”

RWC 2015

RETAIL OPPORTUNITIESHigh Scoring Currency Monnaie De Paris, one of the oldest mints in the world, ismarking Rugby World Cup 2015 in a truly memorable way –by issuing Euros in the shape of a Rugby ball! It created anincredible stir at the recent World Money Fair in Berlin when thecollection of coins, crafted to commemorate the Tournament,were released. This very special Euros collection comprisescoins made from gold, silver as well as brilliant (anuncirculated non-precious metal) will be a hugely popularlaunch for coin collectors and Rugby fans alike.

Below: Among the collection of coins being issued by Monnaie De Paris tocommemorate RWC 2015 are those shaped like a Rugby ball.

Royal Stamps Of ApprovalRoyal Mail has commissioned astunning set of eight Rugby WorldCup 2015 commemorative stamps, apresentation pack, as well as variousfirst day covers featuring keyelements of the ‘first class’ sport ofRugby as a theme.

Above: The Queen has given her‘stamp of approval’ to a set ofstamps which will mark RugbyWorld Cup 2015.

Right: Shaun the Sheep is onboardas an ambassador, embracing RWC 2015’swhole family appeal with an involvementwhich spans licensed merchandise, marketingand consumer engagement activity.

Below: As part of it’s tie-up with the TrinityMirror Group, the licensing and retailprogramme is benefitting from a host ofadvertising opportunities to promote the

licensed merchandise in nationaland regional press, exemplifiedby its ’12 days of Christmas’campaign in the Daily Mirror.This is a marketing partnership of which retailerscan benefit massively.

5Above: Retailers benefit from additional -promotional opportunities available from theimpressive line-up of RWC 2015 WorldwidePartners and Sponsors.

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6

ome things are just meant to happen,” says RobGoodchild, head of licensing of AardmanAnimations (the British animation maestros who

are famed for creating Wallace & Gromit, Morph andShaun the Sheep). “My colleague Laura Daniel had achance conversation with ESP’s James Whitburn twoyears ago at Toy Fair – and now look, Shaun is part of theRWC 2015 flock, there is a host of related merchandiseout there and Shaun has a crammed diary of events.It is the Year of the Sheep after all though!” adds the exuberant Rob.

The tie-up makes a lot of sense from allsides. Shaun has never made any secretof his love of sport – who could forget

his prowess at ‘keepy uppy’ with a cabbage in one of themost popular Shaun the Sheep episode. Then there wasthe Championsheeps Campaign in 2012, which saw Shaunand the flock inspired the nation’s youngsters to getactive with some ‘grassroots’activity which continuesonline on the CBBC website.

Rugby World Cup 2015 is going to be an

extraordinary Tournament – and fittingly

it has some top names as ambassadors,

one of whom has four legs!

Aardman Animations’ head of licensing

Rob Goodchild reveals how, hot on the

hooves of his blockbuster debut, Shaun the

Sheep was only too keen to help promote this

important sporting ‘Championsheep’!

Baa-Rilliant!Just

SHAUN THE SHEEP

Left: Aardman Animation’sRob Goodchild, Head ofLicensing and LicensingManager Laura Daniel on theRainbow Designs’ stand at therecent Toy Fair, in London’sOlympia, where RWC 2015Shaun licensed plush collection was on show.

RWC 2015

S“

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“Shaun likes nothing better than getting muddy withthe rest of the flock in a field – just the same as worldclass Rugby players do!” jokes Rob.

From RWC 2015’s point of view, Shaun the Sheep’swell loved, cross generational appeal made him the idealam’baa’sador to endorse the family approach theTournament will have, especiallyas he is now so well known inmany of the countries whoare competing for the Webb Ellis Cup.

“Shaun is especially popular in France, Australia,New Zealand, South Africa,Japan and Italy, all of whomhave teams competing inRWC 2015,” points out Rob.

However, Shaun is mostdefinite about the fact thatwhile he may be a great British brand, in the context of

RWC 2015, he is “a non-partisan sheep. And he won’t‘pull the wool over anyone’s eyes’ on this!” assures Rob.

With a range of co-branded RWC 2015 Shaun the Sheep merchandise now available from a dozen licensees and ongoing conversations with theorganisers and host cities for potential Tournament timeactivities and over 5.4 million Facebook fans of his ownto bleat onto about it all, retailers should be flocking toget involved too!

SHAUN THE SHEEP

Told Ewe So“Shaun is having a very busy year, what with therelease of the movie, but of course he still madetime to give his input into the style-guide for RWC2015 Shaun the Sheep,” reveals Laura Daniel,Licensing Manager of Aardman Animations.

RWC 2015 7

Left: Cooneen andMisrili are among thelicensees who have designed productsfeaturing RWC 2015Shaun the Sheep livery.

Above and below: Intrue Shaun the Sheepstyle, the RWC 2015style guide includessome quirky phrasesand poses.

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Page 8: Rugby World Cup 2015 Supplement

RWC 2015

BEHIND THE COUNTER: SPORTFOLIO

8

With the tenacity and strength of vision of aprop forward, Ross Munro, CEO ofSportfolio is going to do his utmost to

ensure that Rugby World Cup 2015 really scores on themerchandise front. Not leaving much to chance,Sportfolio is not only the exclusive apparel licensee, buthas also opened standalone dedicated stores, createdand is running the RWC 2015 eCommerce site,partnered with the England Rugby and Welsh RugbyUnion for concessions in the Twickenham and

Millennium stadiums wherematches are being played, hasdistribution arrangements inplace covering certain retailchannels and is working withRWC 2015 stakeholders to produce bespoke itemsfanfaring the Tournament.

Ross stresses that Sportfolio is a team effort, but eventhen the commitment is extraordinary. Such is thepotential of Rugby World Cup 2015 that New ZealanderRoss, persuaded his wife Marilyn, sons Simon and Scott,daughter Jordan and long serving General Manager

Greg Flynn to up sticksfrom the other side of theworld and move to the UKto form the managementteam of Sportfolio Europe.

Its HQ is a cavernouswarehouse located within‘cheering distance’ ofTwickenham stadium,England’s home of Rugby.

If retailers needed any extra reassurance as tothe public’s appetite for Rugby World Cup 2015merchandise, they would only need to spend 30seconds with Ross Munro, CEO of Sportfolio(which operates the standalone official RWC2015 stores, eCommerce site as well as beingthe exclusive apparel licensee. But, pin back yourears; he talks fast and furious, quoting projectedfigures that make your eyes water.

A Tight Retail PackA Tight Retail Pack

Left: The Cardiff RWC 2015 store opened at thestart of the year ready to serve the demand fromthe strong Rugby following in Wales as well asthose who will come to the matches staged atthe Millennium Stadium during the Tournament.

Above: Sportfolio is amongthe licensees that areproducing dual-brandedcollections for theTournament, featuring eithercountry-specific Union marksor the Canterbury brand.

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Page 9: Rugby World Cup 2015 Supplement

The Product PortfolioSportfolio employed a dedicated designer for 12 full months to create the designs for the multifarious apparel products which form its vast Rugby World Cup 2015 licensed product portfolio. This spans various distinct collections and also includes several dual-brandings, be that featuring one of the participating Unions’ logos or thesporting brand of Canterbury alongside the main RWC 2015 event mark.

“You need to cater for all tastes, price points and fans’ expectations,” explains Ross.So, in addition to a vast Rugby World Cup 2015 core collection there is a Country Specific range, plus one which

centres around the Webb Ellis Cup. Another popular collection is its 20 Unions range, the latter featuring all of thecompeting Unions’ logos.

9

The lilting New Zealand tones create abuzz in the office upstairs while on theground floor the warehouse team has been busy for months, taking deliveries of the vast apparelcollections that Sportfolio hasdesigned and manufactured, beforesending them out to the company-rundedicated official RWC 2015 stores, toconsumers who have ordered itemsonline and to its other retail anddistribution customers.

It’s busy now, but as Ross says“this is nothing. It is going to bemanic.” He can say this withsome knowledge as he has lived andbreathed a fair few Rugby World Cups inhis time.

If you ask him to sum up his workinglife, his nonchalant brush off is: “Oh, I’vebeen in the apparel industry for too long.”

This is somewhat of an understatement,but his rapid verbal delivery leaves nochance to backtrack for muchelucidation!

However, it was the experience with theprevious three Rugby World Cups, especially RWC 2011(hosted by New Zealand) that left Ross and his team in no doubt that “Rugby World Cup 2015 is going to

be phenomenal.”Rugby World Cup 2011

was big news in NewZealand (and

Sportfolio was the mainapparel and retail

operator for that), but asRoss says, “There are not

that many peopleliving in New

Zealand and it isa long way

from a lot of

the other sporting nations. This one is going tobe much bigger. In the UK alone there are two million registered Rugby players, that’s 40% of the total world figure! The 2.3 million ticket allocation was snapped up in record time andmassively oversubscribed.”

With standalone stores already operational in highprofile sites, such as London’s Oxford Street, CoventGarden as well as Cardiff – and others likely to followon, Ross is more than happy with the level of interest

and takings through the till (for both Sportfolio’s ownlines as well as those bought in from licensees), but thereal surge in sales will start in the summer.

“Retailers will be kicking themselves if they miss out. Theindications already are showing that take up is going to be much stronger than previous Rugby World Cups,” says Ross. “We alone are expecting to take over £50million worth of sales – but 70% of these will happen in the last 12 weeks.”

It is going to be an exciting Tournament, both in thestadiums and at retail!

As to which team he would like to see hold up the WebbEllis Cup on October 31 after the final match has beenplayed, Ross’ quick fire response is: “England of course, thetakings will be even better.” Then, remembering hispatronage he quickly adds: “But I do of course hope theAll Blacks do well too!”

BEHIND THE COUNTER: SPORTFOLIO

RWC 2015

Right: The iconicTrophy, the Webb Ellis Cup, has centrestage on a wholecollection of apparelfrom Sportfolio.

Right: As well as its ‘bricks andmortar’ stores, Sportfolio is alsoup and running with the officialecommerce website selling RWC2015 merchandise.Below: Bound to be a popularrange is Sportfolio’s 20 Unionscollection which includes logosof the 20 different participatingUnions that are competing in theRWC 2015.

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THE PRODUCT LINE-UP

RWC 2015

Given its wide-reaching appeal, it is not surprising that Rugby World Cup 2015has attracted an impressive line-up of licensee partners who have produceda wide array of products – from high end luxury through to those ateveryday price points – enabling fans of all ages to reallyconnect with this memorable Tournament.

Some RealTouchpoints

Hy-Pro, one of the UK's pre-eminent sports active goodsmanufacturers, has produced a full range of RWC 2015sports active products. The engaging range includes bags and luggage, sports accessories (such as waterbottles and sweatbands) as well as novelty items, such as frisbees and flags.Hy-Pro Contact: Tim Bowers T: +44 (0)1582 670 100E: [email protected]

SPO

RTS

AC

TIV

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Leading specialist watch, clockand jewellery group, PeersHardy, is a major supplier ofown label watches to manyhigh street fashion chainsand is well experienced incombining great brandswith wonderfultimekeeping products.In a case of ‘great timing’,Peers Hardy has producedLimited Edition Rugby WorldCup 2015 Chronographs incommemoration of the Tournament!Peers Hardy Contact: William Stewart T: +44 (0)1494 486 220E: [email protected]

WAT

CH

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One of the UK’s largest independent book publishers andhome for global sports, the Carlton Publishing Group, hasreleased a ‘scrum down’ of Official Rugby World Cup 2015books. Set to fill up the bookshelves are: The Official RugbyWorld Cup 2015 Guide; Rugby World Cup 2015 Activity Bookand Rugby World Cup 2015 Fact File.Carlton Publishing Group Contact: Jim Greenhough T: +44 (0) 20 7612 0414 E: [email protected]

BLI

SHIN

G

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Privately owned family-run business(with 130 years history!) William Lambis set to build on its market leadingreputation for producing licensed children'sfootwear. It has launched some snuggly RugbyWorld Cup 2015 Shaun the Sheep dual-branded slippers forchildren as well as some great adult versions too.William Lamb Footwear Contact: Charlotte Lamb T: +44 (0)1924 820282E: [email protected]

ELLI

ES &

SLI

PPER

S

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RWC 2015

THE PRODUCT LINE-UP

Established in 1850,Christy Towelsmanufactures towels andbed linen - and is in factthe company whichinvented the first everindustrially producedterry towel! Adding to itssporting credentials (ithas been the officialsupplier of towels to theannual Wimbledon tennis tournament since 1987) Christy hasproduced a range of Rugby World Cup 2015 branded towelsand bed linen, as well as dual-branded items incorporating theEngland Rugby and Shaun the Sheep marks.Christy Towels/WelspunContact: Maxine Johnson T: +44 (0)161 3675843E: [email protected]

TOW

ELS

& B

ED L

INEN

EcoCup specialises in supplying ecologicaland aesthetic reusable plastic cups forevents with large crowds. Recently used atboth the Women’s RWC 2014 and JuniorRWC 2014, EcoCup is now offering variousdesigns for this year’s Tournament, including RWC 2015 Shaun the Sheep cupsfor kids, to Pool-specific cups featuring all 20competing Unions. EcoCup Contact: Windsor Roberts T: +33 (0)619 40 13 88 E: [email protected]

SUPP

OR

TER

CU

PS

Euphoria Sports is the creator of the Bandaluza, adouble-handed flag that serves as a banner or can bedetached to become a conventional flag. Each handleemits LED lights in a range of colours of up to sixdifferent settings to provide various lighting effects.Euphoria Sports has produced a range of Rugby WorldCup 2015 branded Bandaluzas that feature the flags ofeach of the competing Unions. Euphoria Sports Contact: Leonardo Udeh T: +44 (0)203 294 9927E: [email protected]

FLA

GS

The Flask Company was foundedaround the challenge to turn a boringplain stainless steel flask into somethingmuch more appealing, contemporaryand fun. The Flask Company hascreated several different Rugby WorldCup 2015 branded flasks, which areaimed at the gift market – a practicalgift and a lasting piece of memorabilia.The Flask Company Contact: Dawn Porch T: +44 (0)7956 629904 E: [email protected]

FLA

SKS

The London Silver Company is a privately-ownedcompany that produces a large selection ofSterling Silver gifts for men, women andchildren. All of its items are handmade by highly skilledcrafts people making each item individually unique.The company has launched an impressive range ofRWC 2015 branded items.The London Silver Company Contact: Mark Taylor T: +44 (0)203 1500 340 E: [email protected]

JEW

ELLE

RY

11

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THE PRODUCT LINE-UP

RWC 2015

In a sweet move, Spun Candy hasproduced a range of irresistible,designer confectionery, allhandmade in its London stores,using all natural flavourings. Thesweets are also gelatin free andsuitable for vegetarians. The RWC2015 hard rock candy rangeincludes a flavour for each Uniontaking part in RWC 2015, fromcoconut to kiwi. Spun Candy Contact: James Ellender T: +44 (0)718 714 825E: [email protected]

CON

FEC

TIO

NER

YSpecialists in producing Rugby-related souvenirs,Rugby Heads has drawn on its expertise toproduce Rugby World Cup 2015 branded teddy bears, seat cushions and covers as well as otherspectator accessories.Rugby Heads Contact: Duncan Johnson T: +44 (0)1572 757070E: [email protected]

UV

ENIR

S

Here’s something to turn the RWC 2015 fan inside out withexcitement – a dual-branded Rugby World Cup 2015 Shaun theSheep reversible plush Rugby ball!This is just one of the products from Kayford Holdings, a specialistin licensed toys (such as plush, figurines) and party items. KayfordHoldings has also produced dual-branded RWC 2015 Shaun theSheep vinyl figurines.Kayford Holdings Contact: Eric Vlieg T: +31 622 547050E: [email protected]

TOYS

Ulster Weavers (a Royal Warrant holder for kitchentextiles) prides itself on the production of highquality linen and textile products and has certainlydone itself proud with the design of its RugbyWorld Cup 2015 branded homewares collections. The stunning range includes both pure RugbyWorld Cup 2015 branded homewares as well asdual-branded collections that feature most of themajor participating Rugby Unions.Ulster Weavers Contact: Jack Ferguson T: +44 (0)28 9032 9494E: [email protected]

HO

MEW

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(This design is indicative and subject to approval)

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THE PRODUCT LINE-UP

RWC 2015

Certainly no stranger to the Tournament (having been the official global apparel licenseefor Rugby World Cup 2011 in New Zealand for starters) Sportfolio has created a vastportfolio of different apparel ranges for Rugby World Cup 2015.Retailers will be spoilt for choice – whether they want country specific products, dual-licensed or the much demanded 20 Unions commemorative items.Sportfolio Europe Contact: Greg Flynn T: +44 (0)20 8892 9451E: [email protected]

APP

AR

EL

Masters of wall art, PyramidInternational has launched a greatcollection of official Rugby World Cup 2015 historical and heritage wallart (posters, boxed canvas prints,wooden wall art and framed prints)that celebrates the story behind howRugby was born. In addition, it has also developed an array of premiummugs, hip flask sets, keychains,wristbands, calendars. To cater for allconsumer tastes Pyramid has a duallicence with RWC 2015 and highranking Rugby Unions.Pyramid InternationalContact: Mordy Benaiah T: +44 (0)116 284 3670E: [email protected]

WA

LL A

RT

& G

IFTS

With over 20 years of experience, B&MLeisure is a leading supplier of bespoke tieswithin the UK and Ireland, designing ties formany prestigious sporting bodies.In addition to RWC 2015 branded ties, thecompany is also offering dual-branded tieswith the NZRU, Australian Rugby, Irish RugbyFootball Union, England Rugby, ScottishRugby and Welsh Rugby Union.B&M Leisure Contact: Brian McFeely T: +44 (0)20 8302 7424E: [email protected]

TIES

SOC

KS Proud of your Rugby playing

nation? Looking for a stylish andpractical gift for a Rugby-lovingfriend or family member? Look nofurther than WackySox’s range ofladies' and men's top quality, British-made, funny, funky and cool,long knee-high Official Rugby WorldCup 2015 socks that can be wornabove or below the knee andfeature an ultra-high performancepadded foot. WackySox Contact: Keith Grainger T: +44 (0) 1509 880 021E: [email protected]

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THE PRODUCT LINE-UP

RWC 2015

INFL

ATA

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Renowned for creating high quality pins and keyrings forprestigious global sporting events Trofe has released aninspiring range for Rugby World Cup 2015. In addition topins and keyrings, the collection also includes bottle openerslanyards cufflinks and other novelty items. The range spanspure Rugby World Cup 2015 branding as well as dual-brandeditems incorporating England Rugby, NZRU, WRU plus someRWC 2015 Shaun the Sheep items.Trofe Australia Pty Contact: Robyn Oltvanyi T: +61 2 9660 966E: [email protected]

NS

& K

EYR

ING

SWell-known for working in partnershipwith some of the world's most recognisedbrands and events, Event Merchandisinghas developed a range of Rugby WorldCup 2015 souvenirs set to mark thismilestone Tournament. The range includesUSB sticks, lanyards, gym sacks, supporterblankets, car accessories, flags andbanners, metro card holders, novelty cups, pet accessories, stationery andsupporter toys. Dual-branded RWC 2015 Shaun the Sheepproduct will also be available.Event Merchandising Contact: Jeremy Goldsmith T: +44 (0)20 8208 1166E: [email protected]

SOU

VEN

IRS

Founded in 1935 in Istanbul, Turkey,Paşabahçe has grown from being a centrepoint of the Turkish glass industry into oneof the largest and most prestigiousglass producers in the world. Paşabahçe hasproduced a range of beautiful RWC 2015glassware, including soda glasses, tumblers, beer glasses, wine glasses and champagne flutes.Paşabahçe/Glass Brands Contact: Adi Raz T: +972 (0)544 511 441E: [email protected]

GLA

SSW

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With great design capabilities, as well ascharacter and brand licensing experience, award-winning company Kids@Play specialisesin outdoor and battery-powered vehicles.Kids@Play has launched dual-branded RugbyWorld Cup 2015 Shaun the Sheep inflatables tomarket in time for the Tournament, as well as aninflatable RWC 2015 Shaun the Sheep tackle bagfor aspiring young little Rugby players.Kids@Play Contact: Malcolm Evans T: +44 (0)1291 429007E: [email protected]

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THE PRODUCT LINE-UP

15RWC 2015

The talented creative team of VenomCommunications has created an inspiring rangeof smartphone and device cases, crafted usingonly the highest quality materials. The product portfolio includes both RugbyWorld Cup 2015 and Webb Ellis Cup Collections.Venom Communications Contact: Tom Hodge T: +44 (0)1763 284 181E: [email protected]

PHO

NE

CA

SES

Templeton Solutions is a London-basedmanufacturer of high-end belts with a wealth ofprevious experience in creating product for highprofile events. It has designed and produced awonderful range of high-end RWC 2015 brandedcanvas and leather belts. These include designswhich feature classic styling in gold and blackwith subtle branding, as well as others thatrepresent all 20 of the competing Unions. Templeton Solutions/ESP Contact: Chris Hoddell T: +44 (0)20 8879 0506E: [email protected]

BEL

TS Hugely respected modern English luxury brandspecialising in exquisite leather accessories andsilverware, Thomas Lyte has produced aprestigious range of high-end leather goods and gold jewellery featuring the Webb Ellis Cup.Further building on its reputation as one of theworld's greatest trophy makers, the company has developed an exclusive collection of replicaWebb Ellis Cup trophies in different sizes for collectors. Thomas Lyte Contact: Andrew Jones T: +44 (0)20 7751 8815E: [email protected]

LUX

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Family-owned Awnhill, one of the largestimporters and distributors of souvenirmerchandise throughout the UK, has created abroad range of RWC 2015 souvenirs. Theproduct portfolio includes umbrellas, stationery,shot glasses, magnets and bag clips. There arealso dual branded Rugby World Cup 2015 Shaunthe Sheep products, as well as an exciting rangefeaturing the England Rose, specifically for theEngland Rugby fan.Awnhill Contact: Hiten Thakrar T: +44 (0)20 8842 4140E: [email protected]

SOU

VEN

IRS

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THE PRODUCT LINE-UP

RWC 2015

Just Mugs has supplied high quality kitchenware and mugs to itsdiscerning customers for nearly 20 years. Its extensive product rangeincludes fine bone china mugs (made in England), which arecomplemented by in-house designed porcelain/stoneware mugs andkitchenware. Just Mugs knew it would be a perfect choice to provide acherished keepsake for RWC 2015, and so has produced a range ofRWC 2015 branded coffee mugs made from fine bone china.Just Mugs Contact: Phil Tittensor T: +44 (0)1782 819381E: [email protected]

BO

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INA

MU

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With reputations for excellence in thechildren's character market, Cooneenand Misirli have been working inpartnership to create a range of pureRugby World Cup 2015 nightwear andunderwear, as well as a range of dual-branded RWC 2015 and Shaunthe Sheep product.Cooneen Contact: Mike Coles T: +44 (0)161 276 0310E: [email protected] Contact: Kim Bown T: +44 (0)1162 645860E: [email protected]

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One of the leading Rugby brands inthe world, Rhino Rugby has becomepart of the very fabric of the Gameitself. It has produced Rugby WorldCup 2015 branded contact andtraining equipment, such as mouthguards, shoulder vests, head guards,kicking tees, training bibs, tacklebags and hit shields featuring theRWC 2015 logo and distinctive livery.Rhino RugbyContact: Reg Clark T: +44 (0)208 995 5965 E: [email protected]

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Recreating the excitementof the stadium experienceof the Tournament, Big BenInteractive is producing theOfficial Rugby World Cup2015 video game for allplatforms, including Xbox360 and Playstation 3.Big Ben Interactive Contact: Benoît Clerc T: +33 (0)320 905 720 E: [email protected]

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Rugby fans are Rugby fans come rain orshine - and Peros has just the thing for thosedamp days!Its durable adult umbrellas are emblazonedwith the all familiar RWC 2015 logo anddistinctive colouways.Peros Contact: Gareth MartinE: [email protected]

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Leading footwear company,specialising in the importing andsale of shoes and slippers formajor retail distribution andspecialist sport stores, Aventure has developed a range of footwear for the Tournament.The stylish range includescountry specific designs, whichenables fans to wear RWC 2015slippers in their country colours. Aventure Contact: Vincent OlivierT: +33 (0)251 94 25 55E: [email protected]

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Page 17: Rugby World Cup 2015 Supplement

THE PRODUCT LINE-UPArdent Media, the publisher of Family Traveller Magazine (andwww.familytraveller.com) is publishing the Official Rugby World Cup 2015Travel Guide.Ardent has worked closely with Visit England and all RWC 2015 Host Cities toensure that the Official Travel Guide encapsulates the best of what the UK hasto offer to all Rugby fans out there planning to travel in support of their team.Family Traveller (Ardent Media)Contact: Andrew Dent T: +44 (0) 20 7812 6374E: [email protected]

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(This design is indicative and subject to approval)

Well respected for its innovativeapproach to product design,Touch of Ginger has produced anunusual array of design-ledcorporate gifts which have alreadyproved very popular among theTournament’s Worldwide Partnersand Official Sponsors, as well asthe wider RWC 2015 stakeholders.Touch of Ginger Contact: Adam CashT: +44 (0)870 701 9596 E: [email protected]

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A crucial part of any majorTournament are the match dayprogrammes and Sport Media(part of the Trinity Group) willcertainly not disappoint. The publisher will produce anddistribute 48 match dayprogrammes in print andelectronic format and will use itsreach of leading regional newstitles to assist with promoting andmarketing the Tournament.In addition it is also publishing theOfficial Tournament PreviewMagazine for RWC 2015 to whetfans’ appetites even before thefirst kick-off.Trinity Mirror Sport Media Contact: Will Beedles T: +44 (0)7717 891 411E: [email protected]

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With over 20 years of experience inlicensed product (specialising inthe production and distribution ofhigh quality children's gifts)Rainbow Designs is not at all‘sheepish’ about its design talentsin this field. Its wonderful range ofdual branded Rugby World Cup2015 Shaun the Sheep plush comesin three different sizes and colourschemes, showcasing Shaun in hisvery own RWC 2015 kit – and he’sin a handy size so ‘ewe’ can carryhim with you everywhere you go.Rainbow Designs Contact: Antony Temple T: +44 (0)203 178 6725E: [email protected]

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Sound Decisions is producing a RWC2015 branded on-ear radio withoptional earphones that will be sold tothe general public and supplied topartners (with bespoke branding).These radios will provide spectatorswith several channels of audio,including the referee's voice, andcommentary (multi language whereappropriate). Away from the venues,the radio will function as an ordinaryFM radio and with the full RWC 2015branding will act as an excellentsouvenir.Sound Decisions Contact: Toby Gunter T: +44 (0)7747116701E: [email protected]

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Page 18: Rugby World Cup 2015 Supplement

RWC 2015

TEAM TALK

Meet The Squad

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Team effort is not just important on the pitch – and ESP has an impressive ‘front row’,driving hard so that Rugby World Cup 2015 delivers a high scoring licensing programme.

James Whitburn – LicensingDirector RWC 2015James leads the UK licensing team for RWC 2015, drawing on a wealth ofinternational licensing, brand managementand legal experience.Among the high profile sporting events inwhich he has been heavily involved are theAmericas Cup yacht race (for which hecreated the licensing programme) as well asadvising the Olympic organising committeeof Sochi 2014, London 2012, Vancouver 2010 and Beijing 2008, on sponsorship and licensing.

Kate Worlock – Brand and Licensing Manager RWC 2015 Kate’s wide-ranging involvement in the licensing programme for RWC2015 include product development, brand approvals, as well as creativeinto the advertising and marketing campaigns. Kate joined ESP bringingwith her significant experience in brand licensing, experiential marketingand event execution based on her involvement with the London 2012Olympic & Paralympic Games, Coca-Cola, IMG and Fat Face.  

Terry Wilson – Head ofRWC 2015 Licensing With more than 20 years’ experience inthe licensing and retail industry, Terryjoined Elite Sports Properties (ESP) inJanuary 2012 and heads up the licensingteam for Rugby World Cup 2015.Terry’s extensive track record includesdriving the global brand strategies for ahost of important sporting tournamentsand event. These include RWC 2011,Rugby League World Cup 2008, RWC2003, British Lions Tour, OlympicsSydney 2000, Salt Lake City 2002,Beijing 2008 as well as AFL, NRL, andCricket World Cup 2007.

Left: The ESP team isalready in full RWC 2015spirit! (Left-right) JamesWhitburn, Kate Worlock,Stephen Wanigesekeraand Tim Worlock.

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RWC 2015

TEAM TALK

About ESPElite Sports Properties (ESP) was formed in 1996, with the aim of providing the world’s verybest in sports marketing, licensing, events and sports talent management.In addition to Rugby World Cup 2015, ESP is working with Olympiads (including Sir ChrisHoy) as well as teams and talent from the world of cricket, Australian Football League, netball and the media.In conjunction with the founding partners of the company (Rob Woodhouse, Scott Davidson

and Craig Kelly) ESP has built a strong team who have the skills and background to bring tolife the RWC 2015 licensing and retail programme.While ESP’s activities for RWC 2015 are being mainly handled by its London offices (based in Richmond), the company

also has management teams in Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide and Perth.

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Want to get in touch about the retail opportunities?Contact: James Whitburn ESP Licensing Sports Brand Management Services Pty Ltd,

Parkshot House, 5 Kew Road, Richmond TW9 2PROffice: 0208 3348172 Direct: 0208 3348174 Mobile: 07748498318

Anne Louise Williams – Licensing Administration ManagerAnne Louise has been working on Rugby World Cup 2015 licensing since the formation of the ESP team. Shehas held various roles within the company, including contracting and financial management and is nowworking on operational and Tournament planning. The last 15 years has seen Anne Louise hone her experiencein sports marketing, account management and licensing. Having lived in Australia, New Zealand and the UK,she has worked on high profile events including Wimbledon and previous Rugby World Cups (as part of IMG)and New Zealand Rugby Union (with VBM).

Tim Worlock – LicensingAdministration ManagerTim manages the product developmentand brand approvals for the RWC 2015licensing programme.  He has extensiveevents experience, gathered from beingpart of the retail operations team for theLondon 2012 Olympics and ParalympicGames, Wimbledon Championships aswell as through involvement in theproduction of ITV’s X Factor live shows.

Stephen Wanigesekera –Licensing ManagerStephen manages the business side of theRWC 2015 licensing programme, whichincludes licensee relationship management,deal negotiation, contracts, finances,royalties and forecasting.  Stephen joined

ESP from Electronic Arts, where he looked after thecompany’s European licensing programme for over eightyears while previous to this held positions with sales andmarketing organisations for seven years.  * Zoe Arnott (currently on maternity leave has recently given birth to twins - a boy and a girl) joined ESP aftersuccessful spells at both Turner Broadcasting and TheLicensing Company.

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