United step out with US outdoor clothing firm

MANCHESTER United has agreed a deal with US company Columbia Sportswear to be its first official outdoor apparel partner.

As part of the deal, the Oregon-based company will design and create dual branded outerwear for activities such as hiking, climbing, mountaineering, as well as water and snow activities. Products will go on sale this autumn.

Manchester United managing director Richard Arnold said: “Like Manchester United, Columbia is steeped in history and has a reputation for creating innovative premium products. Available in over 100 countries, Columbia enjoys an international reach that matches the club’s.

“We look forward to working together to provide our fans with a new way of expressing their support for the Club, via our range of branded outdoor apparel.”

Joe Boyle, senior vice president of Columbia merchandising and design, added: “Together, we will deliver to Manchester United fans around the world an attractive line of outerwear featuring Columbia’s most advanced proprietary technologies.”

Financial terms of the deal were not revealed.