World Rugby, through their master licensee, IMG, has appointed retail and merchandising company, Legends, as the official retail partner and operator for the 2023 Rugby World Cup (RWC).
The relationship between the pair will build on a partnership from the 2019 World Cup, with the retailer set to open two flagship stores in Paris and Marseille in August 2023, which features merchandise from all 20 participating nations.
The stores will offer a range of products from replica jerseys to memorabilia, including the official Gilbert match ball.
World Rugby CEO, Alan Gilpin, said: “Our ambition is to deliver a world class experience for rugby fans in France in 2023 and Legends will help us achieve that mission, bringing together their expertise and comprehensive experience to the table to deliver an outstanding event.”
“Through a network of official retail stores covering all hosts venues and cities, we will innovate together and give fans a tangible memory of what promises to be a spectacular tournament on and off the pitch,” Gilpin said.
Legends, vice president of international retail, Victoria Hawksley, said the company is proud of its relationship with World Rugby.
“We are excited to once again bring fans a spectacular retail experience and expansive offerings for Rugby World Cup 2023 in France, a location where Legends has a growing presence and commitment,” Hawksley said.
The announcement comes after camera manufacturer, Canon, extended its partnership with World Rugby as the official image supplier for the 2023 RWC.
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