Amazon-owned and Las Vegas-based Zappos named UFC's official U.S. licensing partner
The UFC is getting into business with one of the world’s leading online retailers.
Friday, the promotion announced a new multiyear partnership with Zappos, a Las Vegas-based company owned by Amazon that is known primarily for its shoe sales. Zappos will become the UFC’s exclusive wholesale manufacturer and distributor of UFC merchandise, according to a news release.
Officially licensed UFC merchandise will be available at Zappos.com starting Monday. Zappos will create UFC-branded fan merchandise and apparel, “including clothing, footwear, headwear, and other accessories” with exclusive rights in the United States.
“Our merchandise and apparel are primary touch points that help connect our fans with UFC’s brand,” senior vice president for UFC Global Consumer Products Tracey Bleczinski stated. “Zappos is a company of innovators, their customer service is without equal, and their reach is global. We couldn’t ask for a better brand to help us serve the more than 300 million UFC fans worldwide.”
Zappos’ parent company, Amazon, has for several years been the biggest retail giant in the U.S. Zappos is expected to also sell UFC apparel there, as well.
“Through our partnership with UFC, we’re excited to bring WOW to a whole new customer,” Zappos CEO Kedar Deshpande stated. “It’s a very natural relationship – we’re both Las Vegas-based organizations that share a passion for inclusivity which extends into the fitness world. UFC celebrates all its athletes equally, and we couldn’t be more humbled to welcome them into the Zappos family.”
The selection of UFC fan gear and apparel Zappos will offer is expected to include T-shirts, hoodies, pants, shorts, sandals, warmup jackets, leggings and footwear, the release said.
