Fanatics bags big football retail and e-commerce tie-up with FC Internazionale Milano deal

Inter Milan and Fanatics, a digital sports platform and specialist in global licensed merchandise, have announced a new partnership spanning e-commerce, retail, manufacturing, and licensing.

Leveraging Fanatics’ vertical commerce model, local expertise and global infrastructure, fans of the Nerazzurri will gain access to what is claimed to be one of the most extensive ranges of official merchandise offered in football. 

Through the partnership, Fanatics will work with the Italian football club to expand its merchandise and licensing reach both across Italy and the world.

“Inter boasts a global fanbase of over 530 million people that are interested in our brand and ranks as the second fastest growing European club since 2020. As our international presence continues to expand across every continent, it has become increasingly important for us to stay connected with our fans, wherever they may be,” says Giorgio Ricci, FC Internazionale Milano Chief Revenue Officer.

“To achieve this, we are proud to partner with a global leader in sports merchandising like Fanatics. This collaboration will transform the way Inter is present in the retail sector - not only in Italy, but even more so on the international stage.”

“Inter is a powerhouse in world football, with a rich heritage and unwavering commitment to excellence both on and off the pitch” says Stephen Dowling, President of International at Fanatics. “We’re excited to partner with such an iconic club to enhance the shopping experience for millions of fans, with incredible products and designs brought to life by our fantastic team based in Milano”. 

Lorenzo Forte, CEO at Fanatics Italy, says: “Inter means everything to its fans and we understand the responsibility that this deal brings. Our team in Italy will be laser focused on delivering for this passionate fanbase, providing an outstanding service, and creating exciting new ways for them to connect with their club.”

2025 RTIH INNOVATION AWARDS

E-commerce will be a key focus area at the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards.

The awards, which are now open for entries, celebrate global tech innovation in a fast moving omnichannel world.

Our 2024 hall of fame entrants were revealed during an event which took place at RIBA’s 66 Portland Place HQ in Central London on 21st November, and consisted of a drinks reception, three course meal, and awards ceremony presided over by comedian Lucy Porter.

In his welcome speech, Scott Thompson, Founder and Editor, RTIH, said: “The event is now into its sixth year and what a journey it has been. The awards started life as an online only affair during the Covid outbreak, before launching as a small scale in real life event and growing year on year to the point where we’re now selling out this fine, historic venue.”

He added: “Congratulations to all of our finalists. Many submissions did not make it through to the final stage, and getting to this point is no mean feat. Checkout-free stores, automated supply chains, immersive experiences, on-demand delivery, next generation loyalty offerings, inclusive retail, green technology. We’ve got all the cool stuff covered this evening.”

“But just importantly we’ve got lots of great examples of companies taking innovative tech and making it usable in everyday operations - resulting in more efficiency and profitability in all areas.”

Congratulations to our 2024 winners, and a big thank you to our sponsors, judging panel, the legend that is Lucy Porter, and all those who attended November's gathering. 

For further information on the 2025 RTIH Innovation Awards, please fill in the below form and we will get back to you asap.