Ulster Rugby has signed its first new kit supply deal in ten years with leading UK-based global kit supplier Castore, who will supply men’s, women’s team kits, replica kits and innovative leisure and training wear range, including special edition home kit to mark the centenary of Ulster Rugby’s home ground, launching in August.
Castore will bolster Ulster’s online and physical retail and distribution by operating its online retail operation, and through its network of stores in UK, ROI and globally, including exploring further retail opportunities across Ulster, as well as maintaining a major outlet at Kingspan Stadium.
Under the terms of the deal, Castore will provide a range of kits to Ulster Rugby’s men’s, women’s and age-grade teams, as well as replica kits and athleisure and training-wear products and an updated merchandise range. This includes a special range to mark 100 years of Ravenhill, Ulster Rugby’s home ground, to be launched in August.
Castore will also take over the management of Ulster Rugby’s online retail platforms, and physical distribution and fulfilment channels, with the aim of improving fulfilment and serving a global audience, a model which Castore has successfully introduced to a number of leading European sports teams. As well as online, the new range of Ulster Rugby products will be available to buy in Castore’s global retail network, and the Ulster Rugby store at Kingspan Stadium.
Castore already partners with United Rugby Championship teams, Leinster and Scarlets, as well as Premiership Rugby sides Bath Rugby, Saracens Rugby, and Harlequins. In addition to rugby, Castore also works in Formula One, and has brought its innovative manufacturing processes and fabrics to team and replica fan clothing for Oracle Red Bull Racing, and McLaren F1.
Hugh McCaughey, Interim CEO of Ulster Rugby, said:
“We are delighted to be working with Castore as our kit supplier from next season onwards.
“As the club looks to mark 100 years of playing at Ravenhill throughout the 24/25 season, we are confident that supporters will enjoy the return to playing kits which reflect the heritage of the club, but with a high-quality, modern design.
“There will also be a great range of training wear, which we are confident will be popular with fans of all ages.
“This represents the best commercial deal yet for Ulster Rugby, and we are looking forward to both the club and supporters reaping the benefits of this new partnership.
"Our thanks also go to Kukri for their support as our kit partner over the past decade, and for their role in supporting clubs across the province over those years."
Tom Beahon, Co-Founder of Castore, said:
“We are pleased to partner with Ulster Rugby as Irish Rugby celebrates its 150th year, and Ulster commemorates its own centennial playing at Ravenhill.
“Castore is proud to partner with winning teams across a number of global sports, and we are humbled that Ulster Rugby has placed its trust in us. While Castore is a young company seeking to disrupt the establishment of the global sports apparel market, we recognise Ulster Rugby’s storied history and its commitment to long term partnerships, and we are looking forward to working together to bring future success to the club.”