iPro Sport is pressing ahead with expansion plans into the £2bn retail market following a successful link-up with distribution firm Deckers, which specialises in the soft drinks and alcohol sectors.
The move sees Deckers become the main distribution channel for iPro Sport in Great Britain & Ireland, overseeing supply chains to all major channels, on-trade wholesale, multiples and cash & carry. Deckers will also take over distribution services to iPro’s exclusive sports club relationships, the latter having already established firm sponsorship deals within major football, rugby union and cycling clubs.
iPro Sport’s close collaboration with sports clubs has been an integral part of the company’s ethos and rapid expansion plans. The link with Deckers, a family distribution firm based in the northwest, will also mark iPro Sports’ entrance into the world of cricket.
Newly appointed trading director for Deckers, David Adams, has been brought in by the firm to exclusively manage the firm’s iPro Sport deal. A cricketer in his own right, having played for Derby and Gloucestershire cricket clubs, and brother of Chris Adams, the professional England cricketer, David has links to the international cricket community.
“iPro Sport is a product that’s been tried and tested among the professional sporting community with much success, and I’m delighted to be working alongside them to facilitate their further expansion opportunities,” said Adams. “I’m personally very excited to have the chance to expand their relationship into the world of professional cricket alongside our targeted retail channels, given my close affinity to the sport.
“A family business such as Deckers regards integrity and professionalism as an integral part of its business model, and I have seen a synergy between Deckers’ approach and that of iPro. We are delighted to be in the position to make iPro Sport a household name.”
© FoodBev Media Ltd 2024