Next boosts online sport merchandise assortment via Fanatics tie up

Fanatics and Next have announced a new long-term connected inventory partnership, involving thousands of products from leagues and sporting organisations across the world, including clubs from all major European football leagues, international football teams, Rugby, Formula 1, NFL, NBA and the MLB.

Matthew Primack, Senior Vice-President for International Business Affairs and Development at Fanatics, says: “This new partnership with Next, one of the most popular retailers in the UK, will mean that its customers will now have access to one of the widest ranges of licensed sports merchandise available.”

“This is great news for customers who already visit Next.co.uk to shop for quality clothing and homeware and who will now also be able to also choose from a range of products, designs and styles from their favourite sports leagues, events, teams or players.”

Whilst Fanatics has a number of similar partnerships with retailers in the USA, powering licensed sports merchandise offering online for the likes of Foot Locker, Walmart, Kohls and Nordstrom, the tie up with Next is the first of its kind to launch in Europe.

It will see Next continue to power the front-end online experience and fulfilment to customers whilst utilising Fanatics’ experience in licensed sports merchandise and the range of products it has available to increase the choice and selection for online visitors.

2022 RTIH Innovation Awards

Fanatics is among the nominees in the Most Innovative Global Retailer category at the 2022 RTIH Innovation Awards.

Amazon, Walmart, Carrefour, and Ikea are are also in the running.

RTIH Editor, Scott Thompson, says: “Innovation and technology play a critical role in the success of the retail sector, so it is great to recognise standout examples through our awards.”

“Thanks to all those who have entered the 2022 event. We received a record number of submissions and many fantastic examples of the continued resilience and dynamism of the retail space during hugely challenging times.”

“I’m now looking forward to deciding the winners with our judging panel and announcing them at our central London event in December.”