A sportswear manufacturer that produces kits and training wear for four Yorkshire based Super League clubs has suffered a highway robbery. Elite Pro Sports, who are the official apparel partner of Leeds Rhinos, Hull KR, Huddersfield Giants and Castleford Tigers, announced the major blow via their website.
The robbery took place in the early hours of this morning on a lorry transporting the latest Oxen kit and training range of the four Yorkshire clubs to their warehouse in Doncaster. The company says the robbery could have a knock-on effect for fans wishing to purchase items in the lead up to Christmas.
Thieves broke into the back of the lorry transporting the goods and stole a significant quantity of merchandise. It included some replica shirts and training wear for all four clubs for the new 2023 season.
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The chief executive of the company, Lee Jenkinson, said in a statement: "This is devastating news. As with all local business in the current climate, it is a tough trading environment and things like this are a real blow.
"As with most manufacturers of clothing, our production time is months rather than weeks and it will be a challenge to get some of these items back in stock before Christmas. Replica shirts are our most popular items, especially for younger fans, ahead of Christmas and whilst we will do everything we can to make sure no-one is disappointed, a callous act like this is a hit we could do without.
He continued: "We know that our clubs rely heavily on retail sales prior to Christmas, and we will be working closely with them to ensure this is as minimal as possible. The goods which have been stolen are new designs and not yet on the market. Therefore, we will be able to quickly identify anyone looking to sell these items on."
The company added: "Anyone who is offered 2023 Leeds Rhinos, Hull KR, Huddersfield Giants or Castleford Tigers merchandise should contact the police on the non-emergency number 101 or you can email Elite Pro Sports on customerservices@eliteprosports.co.uk
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