Rugby World Cup 2015 Supplement

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Contact: James Whitburn ESP Licensing Sports Brand Management Services Pty Ltd, Parkshot House, 5 Kew Road, Richmond TW9 2PR Office: 0208 3348172 Direct: 0208 3348174 Mobile: 07748498318

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INTRODUCTION

Welcome

· Some 4 billion fans are expected to watch the televised matches · 20 Unions will compete for the Webb Ellis Cup · 48 matches in 11 different cities in England & Cardiff · A wealth of licensed merchandise · Impressive marketing support for retailers · Rugby World Cup 2015 in England is set to be the biggest and best in the history of the Tournament

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elcome to this very special Rugby World Cup 2015 publication which has been written and produced with the specific aim of ensuring that no one misses out on the huge potential this Tournament promises!

With England as the host nation, an astonishing £1 billion is expected to feed into the UK economy as a result of RWC 2015, building to a crescendo of public fervor for the six week period (September 18-October 31) when the 20 Unions all compete for the coveted Webb Ellis Cup.

Be part of it!

CONTENTS The big picture

Shaun the Sheep’s ambassadorial role

Sportfolio’s retailing thrust

6-7 4-5

The merchandise line-up

ESP’s RWC 2015 team

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18-19

While every effort has been made to ensure that the information in this publication was correct at the time of going to press, the publishers cannot accept legal liability for any errors or omissions, nor can they accept responsibility for the standing of advertisers, nor any organisations mentioned in the text.

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Below: With England as the host nation for RWC 2015, the excitement will be enormously potent for the Tournament, especially as matches will be played in 13 different venues in 11 cities.

RETAIL OPPORTUNITIES

Countdown To Kick-Off “Prepare to get immersed in Rugby World Cup 2015 fever!” James Whitburn, Licensing Director for RWC 2015 urges retailers.

It’s going to be massive there is no doubt – a heady 4 billion people are expected to watch the six week Tournament (which kicks off on September 18) with the crescendo really starting to build from June when the Webb Ellis Cup (which the 20 competing Unions will be looking to win) tours the UK. With an impressive line-up of licensed merchandise, full marketing support and some high profile ambassadors to boot, James encourages retailers of all disciplines to join the RWC 2015 scrum!

Inset: James Whitburn at the recent Spring Fair trade show, on the Ulster Weavers’ stand (home textiles licensee) where a product launch event was held for RWC 2015.

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ames Whitburn knows a thing or two about major sporting events, having started his licensing career with the International Olympic Committee (working at a senior level with Sochi 2014, London 2012, Vancouver 2010 and Beijing 2008 and the TOP programme) as well as the 34th Americas Cup yacht race and World Series events, he is in no doubt about the huge impact Rugby World Cup 2015 is going to have on the UK population, let alone the world.

“The clamour for the 2.3 million tickets was extraordinary – they were two or three times oversubscribed which bodes well for sales. The simple fact that the Tournament spans six weeks, with matches being played in 13 different stadiums in 11 different cities across England and one special stadium in Wales and involving 20 different competing Unions means that RWC 2015 is on course to be the largest and best Rugby World Cup ever and reaching sports fans in regions that saw the London 2012 experience,” sums up James, who joined ESP (Master Licensee for the Tournament) in January 2013.

“We always knew that it would be important to secure the support from a strong roster of licensees, whose products provide the touchpoints for the wideranging fan base – from boys and girls wanting to spend their pocket money on a pin badge marking the event right through to the global following of Rugby superfans looking for that special piece of memorabilia from the Tournament, such as a 1:3 scale replica of the

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Below: Among the collection of coins being issued by Monnaie De Paris to commemorate RWC 2015 are those shaped like a Rugby ball.

RETAIL OPPORTUNITIES

High Scoring Currency Monnaie De Paris, one of the oldest mints in the world, is marking Rugby World Cup 2015 in a truly memorable way – by issuing Euros in the shape of a Rugby ball! It created an incredible stir at the recent World Money Fair in Berlin when the collection of coins, crafted to commemorate the Tournament, were released. This very special Euros collection comprises coins made from gold, silver as well as brilliant (an uncirculated non-precious metal) will be a hugely popular launch for coin collectors and Rugby fans alike.

Right: Shaun the Sheep is onboard as an ambassador, embracing RWC 2015’s whole family appeal with an involvement which spans licensed merchandise, marketing and consumer engagement activity.

Webb Ellis Trophy itself.,” reveals James.

“So it’s great that we are working with so many great licensing partners, each playing their part in making this a very special time in sporting history,” he adds.

James pays tribute to the commitment from Sportfolio, not only as a licensee (designing a vast portfolio of different apparel collections, including Union dualbranded and country-specific items), but also for instigating and running the standalone RWC 2015 shops and online ecommerce site.

“Having Sportfolio on board has been invaluable, the sales through the physical stores in Oxford Street, Covent Garden and Cardiff stores months before the first kick of the Tournament, proves the sales are there now and reinforces the strength of popularity for RWC 2015. This provides extra

Below: As part of it’s tie-up with the Trinity Mirror Group, the licensing and retail programme is benefitting from a host of advertising opportunities to promote the licensed merchandise in national and regional press, exemplified by its ’12 days of Christmas’ campaign in the Daily Mirror.

This is a marketing partnership of which retailers can benefit massively.

reassurance to all retailers looking to get involved in this major sporting event,” he said.

“E commerce has come a long way since the last Tournament in 2011 and has been a huge surprise to the upside in terms of global sales.”

Keen to make it as easy and attractive as possible for retailers to grasp the opportunities, James assures: “We have at our disposal an integrated marketing support programme for retailers to tap into, including in-store POS ticket promotions and access to unrivalled levels of advertising activity via our Official Programme publisher: Trinity Mirror Group, and we have even got Shaun the Sheep as a scrum half - what sporting event can match all that?!”

Royal Stamps Of Approval Royal Mail has commissioned a stunning set of eight Rugby World Cup 2015 commemorative stamps, a presentation pack, as well as various first day covers featuring key elements of the ‘first class’ sport of Rugby as a theme.

Above: Retailers benefit from additional promotional opportunities available from the impressive line-up of RWC 2015 Worldwide Partners and Sponsors.

Above: The Queen has given her ‘stamp of approval’ to a set of stamps which will mark Rugby World Cup 2015.

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Just

SHAUN THE SHEEP

Baa-Rilliant!

Rugby World Cup 2015 is going to be an extraordinary Tournament – and fittingly it has some top names as ambassadors, one of whom has four legs!

Aardman Animations’ head of licensing Rob Goodchild reveals how, hot on the hooves of his blockbuster debut, Shaun the Sheep was only too keen to help promote this important sporting ‘Championsheep’!

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his prowess at ‘keepy uppy’ with a cabbage in one of the most popular Shaun the Sheep episode. Then there was the Championsheeps Campaign in 2012, which saw Shaun and the flock inspired the nation’s youngsters to get active with some ‘grassroots’ activity which continues online on the CBBC website.

ome things are just meant to happen,” says Rob Goodchild, head of licensing of Aardman Animations (the British animation maestros who are famed for creating Wallace & Gromit, Morph and Shaun the Sheep). “My colleague Laura Daniel had a chance conversation with ESP’s James Whitburn two years ago at Toy Fair – and now look, Shaun is part of the RWC 2015 flock, there is a host of related merchandise out there and Shaun has a crammed diary of events.

It is the Year of the Sheep after all though!” adds the exuberant Rob. The tie-up makes a lot of sense from all sides. Shaun has never made any secret of his love of sport – who could forget

Left: Aardman Animation’s Rob Goodchild, Head of Licensing and Licensing Manager Laura Daniel on the Rainbow Designs’ stand at the recent Toy Fair, in London’s Olympia, where RWC 2015 Shaun licensed plush collection was on show.

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SHAUN THE SHEEP

Told Ewe So “Shaun is having a very busy year, what with the release of the movie, but of course he still made time to give his input into the style-guide for RWC 2015 Shaun the Sheep,” reveals Laura Daniel, Licensing Manager of Aardman Animations.

Left: Cooneen and Misrili are among the licensees who have designed products featuring RWC 2015 Shaun the Sheep livery.

Above and below: In true Shaun the Sheep style, the RWC 2015 style guide includes some quirky phrases and poses.

“Shaun likes nothing better than getting muddy with the rest of the flock in a field – just the same as world class Rugby players do!” jokes Rob. From RWC 2015’s point of view, Shaun the Sheep’s well loved, cross generational appeal made him the ideal am’baa’sador to endorse the family approach the Tournament will have, especially as he is now so well known in many of the countries who are competing for the Webb Ellis Cup.

“Shaun is especially popular in France, Australia, New Zealand, South Africa, Japan and Italy, all of whom have teams competing in RWC 2015,” points out Rob. However, Shaun is most definite about the fact that while he may be a great British brand, in the context of

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RWC 2015, he is “a non-partisan sheep. And he won’t ‘pull the wool over anyone’s eyes’ on this!” assures Rob. With a range of co-branded RWC 2015 Shaun the Sheep merchandise now available from a dozen licensees and ongoing conversations with the organisers and host cities for potential Tournament time activities and over 5.4 million Facebook fans of his own to bleat onto about it all, retailers should be flocking to get involved too!

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BEHIND THE COUNTER: SPORTFOLIO

If retailers needed any extra reassurance as to the public’s appetite for Rugby World Cup 2015 merchandise, they would only need to spend 30 seconds with Ross Munro, CEO of Sportfolio (which operates the standalone official RWC 2015 stores, eCommerce site as well as being the exclusive apparel licensee. But, pin back your ears; he talks fast and furious, quoting projected figures that make your eyes water.

A Tight Retail Pack W

ith the tenacity and strength of vision of a prop forward, Ross Munro, CEO of Sportfolio is going to do his utmost to ensure that Rugby World Cup 2015 really scores on the merchandise front. Not leaving much to chance, Sportfolio is not only the exclusive apparel licensee, but has also opened standalone dedicated stores, created and is running the RWC 2015 eCommerce site, partnered with the England Rugby and Welsh Rugby Union for concessions in the Twickenham and

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Above: Sportfolio is among Millennium stadiums where the licensees that are matches are being played, has producing dual-branded collections for the distribution arrangements in Tournament, featuring either country-specific Union marks place covering certain retail or the Canterbury brand. channels and is working with RWC 2015 stakeholders to produce bespoke items fanfaring the Tournament.

Ross stresses that Sportfolio is a team effort, but even then the commitment is extraordinary. Such is the potential of Rugby World Cup 2015 that New Zealander Ross, persuaded his wife Marilyn, sons Simon and Scott, daughter Jordan and long serving General Manager Greg Flynn to up sticks from the other side of the world and move to the UK to form the management team of Sportfolio Europe.

Its HQ is a cavernous warehouse located within ‘cheering distance’ of Twickenham stadium, England’s home of Rugby.

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Left: The Cardiff RWC 2015 store opened at the start of the year ready to serve the demand from the strong Rugby following in Wales as well as those who will come to the matches staged at the Millennium Stadium during the Tournament.

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BEHIND THE COUNTER: SPORTFOLIO

The Product Portfolio Sportfolio employed a dedicated designer for 12 full months to create the designs for the multifarious apparel products which form its vast Rugby World Cup 2015 licensed product portfolio. This spans various distinct collections and also includes several dual-brandings, be that featuring one of the participating Unions’ logos or the sporting brand of Canterbury alongside the main RWC 2015 event mark.

“You need to cater for all tastes, price points and fans’ expectations,” explains Ross.

So, in addition to a vast Rugby World Cup 2015 core collection there is a Country Specific range, plus one which centres around the Webb Ellis Cup. Another popular collection is its 20 Unions range, the latter featuring all of the competing Unions’ logos.

Right: As well as its ‘bricks and The lilting New Zealand tones create a mortar’ stores, Sportfolio is also buzz in the office upstairs while on the up and running with the official ecommerce website selling RWC ground floor the warehouse team 2015 merchandise.

Below: Bound to be a popular has been busy for months, taking range is Sportfolio’s 20 Unions collection which includes logos deliveries of the vast apparel of the 20 different participating collections that Sportfolio has Unions that are competing in the RWC 2015. designed and manufactured, before sending them out to the company-run dedicated official RWC 2015 stores, to consumers who have ordered items online and to its other retail and distribution customers.

It’s busy now, but as Ross says “this is nothing. It is going to be manic.” He can say this with the other sporting nations. This one is going to some knowledge as he has lived and be much bigger. In the UK alone there are two breathed a fair few Rugby World Cups in million registered Rugby players, that’s 40% of his time. the total world figure! The 2.3 million ticket If you ask him to sum up his working allocation was snapped up in record time and life, his nonchalant brush off is: “Oh, I’ve massively oversubscribed.” been in the apparel industry for too long.”

With standalone stores already operational in high This is somewhat of an understatement, profile sites, such as London’s Oxford Street, Covent but his rapid verbal delivery leaves no Garden as well as Cardiff – and others likely to follow chance to backtrack for much on, Ross is more than happy with the level of interest elucidation! and takings through the till (for both Sportfolio’s own However, it was the experience with the lines as well as those bought in from licensees), but the previous three Rugby World Cups, especially RWC 2011 real surge in sales will start in the summer. (hosted by New Zealand) that left Ross and his team in “Retailers will be kicking themselves if they miss out. The no doubt that “Rugby World Cup 2015 is going to indications already are showing that take up is going to be phenomenal.” be much stronger than previous Rugby World Cups,” Rugby World Cup 2011 Right: The iconic says Ross. “We alone are expecting to take over £50 was big news in New Trophy, the Webb million worth of sales – but 70% of these will happen in Zealand (and Ellis Cup, has centre stage on a whole the last 12 weeks.”

Sportfolio was the main collection of apparel from Sportfolio.

It is going to be an exciting Tournament, both in the apparel and retail stadiums and at retail! operator for that), but as As to which team he would like to see hold up the Webb Ross says, “There are not Ellis Cup on October 31 after the final match has been that many people played, Ross’ quick fire response is: “England of course, the living in New takings will be even better.” Then, remembering his Zealand and it is patronage he quickly adds: “But I do of course hope the a long way All Blacks do well too!” from a lot of

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THE PRODUCT LINE-UP

Some Real

Touchpoints WATCHES

Hy-Pro, one of the UK's pre-eminent sports active goods manufacturers, has produced a full range of RWC 2015 sports active products. The engaging range includes bags and luggage, sports accessories (such as water bottles and sweatbands) as well as novelty items, such as frisbees and flags.

Hy-Pro Contact: Tim Bowers T: +44 (0)1582 670 100 E: tim@hy-pro.co.uk

Leading specialist watch, clock and jewellery group, Peers Hardy, is a major supplier of own label watches to many high street fashion chains and is well experienced in combining great brands with wonderful timekeeping products.

In a case of ‘great timing’, Peers Hardy has produced Limited Edition Rugby World Cup 2015 Chronographs in commemoration of the Tournament!

Peers Hardy Contact: William Stewart T: +44 (0)1494 486 220 E: wstewart@peershardy.co.uk

One of the UK’s largest independent book publishers and home for global sports, the Carlton Publishing Group, has released a ‘scrum down’ of Official Rugby World Cup 2015 books. Set to fill up the bookshelves are: The Official Rugby World Cup 2015 Guide; Rugby World Cup 2015 Activity Book and Rugby World Cup 2015 Fact File.

Carlton Publishing Group Contact: Jim Greenhough T: +44 (0) 20 7612 0414 E: jgreenhough@carltonbooks.co.uk

WELLIES & SLIPPERS

PUBLISHING

SPORTS ACTIVE

Given its wide-reaching appeal, it is not surprising that Rugby World Cup 2015 has attracted an impressive line-up of licensee partners who have produced a wide array of products – from high end luxury through to those at everyday price points – enabling fans of all ages to really connect with this memorable Tournament.

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Privately owned family-run business (with 130 years history!) William Lamb is set to build on its market leading reputation for producing licensed children's footwear. It has launched some snuggly Rugby World Cup 2015 Shaun the Sheep dual-branded slippers for children as well as some great adult versions too.

William Lamb Footwear Contact: Charlotte Lamb T: +44 (0)1924 820282 E: charlotte@lamb1887.com

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Established in 1850, Christy Towels manufactures towels and bed linen - and is in fact the company which invented the first ever industrially produced terry towel! Adding to its sporting credentials (it has been the official supplier of towels to the annual Wimbledon tennis tournament since 1987) Christy has produced a range of Rugby World Cup 2015 branded towels and bed linen, as well as dual-branded items incorporating the England Rugby and Shaun the Sheep marks.

Christy Towels/Welspun Contact: Maxine Johnson T: +44 (0)161 3675843 E: Maxine.johnson@welspun.co.uk

JEWELLERY

Euphoria Sports is the creator of the Bandaluza, a double-handed flag that serves as a banner or can be detached to become a conventional flag. Each handle emits LED lights in a range of colours of up to six different settings to provide various lighting effects.

Euphoria Sports has produced a range of Rugby World Cup 2015 branded Bandaluzas that feature the flags of each of the competing Unions.

Euphoria Sports Contact: Leonardo Udeh T: +44 (0)203 294 9927 E: ludeh@euphoriasports.com

FLASKS

TOWELS & BED LINEN

EcoCup specialises in supplying ecological and aesthetic reusable plastic cups for events with large crowds. Recently used at both the Women’s RWC 2014 and Junior RWC 2014, EcoCup is now offering various designs for this year’s Tournament, including RWC 2015 Shaun the Sheep cups for kids, to Pool-specific cups featuring all 20 competing Unions.

EcoCup Contact: Windsor Roberts T: +33 (0)619 40 13 88 E: wroberts@ecocup.eu

FLAGS

SUPPORTER CUPS

THE PRODUCT LINE-UP

The Flask Company was founded around the challenge to turn a boring plain stainless steel flask into something much more appealing, contemporary and fun. The Flask Company has created several different Rugby World Cup 2015 branded flasks, which are aimed at the gift market – a practical gift and a lasting piece of memorabilia.

The Flask Company Contact: Dawn Porch T: +44 (0)7956 629904 E: dawn.porch@theflaskcompany.co.uk

The London Silver Company is a privately-owned company that produces a large selection of Sterling Silver gifts for men, women and children. All of its items are handmade by highly skilled crafts people making each item individually unique.

The company has launched an impressive range of RWC 2015 branded items.

The London Silver Company Contact: Mark Taylor T: +44 (0)203 1500 340 E: mark.taylor@thelondonsilvercompany.com

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In a sweet move, Spun Candy has produced a range of irresistible, designer confectionery, all handmade in its London stores, using all natural flavourings. The sweets are also gelatin free and suitable for vegetarians. The RWC 2015 hard rock candy range includes a flavour for each Union taking part in RWC 2015, from coconut to kiwi.

Spun Candy Contact: James Ellender T: +44 (0)718 714 825 E: james.ellender@spun-candy.com

SOUVENIRS

CONFECTIONERY

THE PRODUCT LINE-UP

Specialists in producing Rugby-related souvenirs, Rugby Heads has drawn on its expertise to produce Rugby World Cup 2015 branded teddy bears, seat cushions and covers as well as other spectator accessories.

Rugby Heads Contact: Duncan Johnson T: +44 (0)1572 757070 E: duncan@dynamoltd.com

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HOMEWARES

TOYS

(This design is indicative and subject to approval)

Here’s something to turn the RWC 2015 fan inside out with excitement – a dual-branded Rugby World Cup 2015 Shaun the Sheep reversible plush Rugby ball!

This is just one of the products from Kayford Holdings, a specialist in licensed toys (such as plush, figurines) and party items. Kayford Holdings has also produced dual-branded RWC 2015 Shaun the Sheep vinyl figurines.

Kayford Holdings Contact: Eric Vlieg T: +31 622 547050 E: eric.vlieg@kayford-holdings.com

Ulster Weavers (a Royal Warrant holder for kitchen textiles) prides itself on the production of high quality linen and textile products and has certainly done itself proud with the design of its Rugby World Cup 2015 branded homewares collections.

The stunning range includes both pure Rugby World Cup 2015 branded homewares as well as dual-branded collections that feature most of the major participating Rugby Unions.

Ulster Weavers Contact: Jack Ferguson T: +44 (0)28 9032 9494 E: jack.ferguson@ulsterweavers.com

Certainly no stranger to the Tournament (having been the official global apparel licensee for Rugby World Cup 2011 in New Zealand for starters) Sportfolio has created a vast portfolio of different apparel ranges for Rugby World Cup 2015.

Retailers will be spoilt for choice – whether they want country specific products, dual-licensed or the much demanded 20 Unions commemorative items.

Sportfolio Europe Contact: Greg Flynn T: +44 (0)20 8892 9451 E: greg@sportfolioeurope.com

THE PRODUCT LINE-UP

With over 20 years of experience, B&M Leisure is a leading supplier of bespoke ties within the UK and Ireland, designing ties for many prestigious sporting bodies.

In addition to RWC 2015 branded ties, the company is also offering dual-branded ties with the NZRU, Australian Rugby, Irish Rugby Football Union, England Rugby, Scottish Rugby and Welsh Rugby Union.

B&M Leisure Contact: Brian McFeely T: +44 (0)20 8302 7424 E: brian@bandmleisure.com

Proud of your Rugby playing nation? Looking for a stylish and practical gift for a Rugby-loving friend or family member? Look no further than WackySox’s range of ladies' and men's top quality, British-made, funny, funky and cool, long knee-high Official Rugby World Cup 2015 socks that can be worn above or below the knee and feature an ultra-high performance padded foot.

WackySox Contact: Keith Grainger T: +44 (0) 1509 880 021 E: sales@wackysox.com

WALL ART & GIFTS

SOCKS

TIES

APPAREL

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Masters of wall art, Pyramid International has launched a great collection of official Rugby World Cup 2015 historical and heritage wall art (posters, boxed canvas prints, wooden wall art and framed prints) that celebrates the story behind how Rugby was born. In addition, it has also developed an array of premium mugs, hip flask sets, keychains, wristbands, calendars. To cater for all consumer tastes Pyramid has a dual licence with RWC 2015 and high ranking Rugby Unions.

Pyramid International Contact: Mordy Benaiah T: +44 (0)116 284 3670 E: mordy@pyrint.com

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With great design capabilities, as well as character and brand licensing experience, award-winning company Kids@Play specialises in outdoor and battery-powered vehicles.

Kids@Play has launched dual-branded Rugby World Cup 2015 Shaun the Sheep inflatables to market in time for the Tournament, as well as an inflatable RWC 2015 Shaun the Sheep tackle bag for aspiring young little Rugby players.

Kids@Play Contact: Malcolm Evans T: +44 (0)1291 429007 E: Malcolm@kids-at-play.com

Well-known for working in partnership with some of the world's most recognised brands and events, Event Merchandising has developed a range of Rugby World Cup 2015 souvenirs set to mark this milestone Tournament. The range includes USB sticks, lanyards, gym sacks, supporter blankets, car accessories, flags and banners, metro card holders, novelty cups, pet accessories, stationery and supporter toys.

Dual-branded RWC 2015 Shaun the Sheep product will also be available.

Event Merchandising Contact: Jeremy Goldsmith T: +44 (0)20 8208 1166 E: Jeremy@eventmerch.com

Renowned for creating high quality pins and keyrings for prestigious global sporting events Trofe has released an inspiring range for Rugby World Cup 2015. In addition to pins and keyrings, the collection also includes bottle openers lanyards cufflinks and other novelty items. The range spans pure Rugby World Cup 2015 branding as well as dual-branded items incorporating England Rugby, NZRU, WRU plus some RWC 2015 Shaun the Sheep items.

Trofe Australia Pty Contact: Robyn Oltvanyi T: +61 2 9660 966 E: robyn@trofe.com.au

GLASSWARE

PINS & KEYRINGS

SOUVENIRS

INFLATABLE TOYS

THE PRODUCT LINE-UP

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Founded in 1935 in Istanbul, Turkey, Paşabahçe has grown from being a centre point of the Turkish glass industry into one of the largest and most prestigious glass producers in the world. Paşabahçe has produced a range of beautiful RWC 2015 glassware, including soda glasses, tumblers, beer glasses, wine glasses and champagne flutes.

Paşabahçe/Glass Brands Contact: Adi Raz T: +972 (0)544 511 441 E: adi@pb-innovation.com

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LUXURY GOODS, TROPHIES

BELTS

The talented creative team of Venom Communications has created an inspiring range of smartphone and device cases, crafted using only the highest quality materials.

The product portfolio includes both Rugby World Cup 2015 and Webb Ellis Cup Collections.

Venom Communications Contact: Tom Hodge T: +44 (0)1763 284 181 E: tom.hodge@venomuk.com

SOUVENIRS

PHONE CASES

THE PRODUCT LINE-UP

Templeton Solutions is a London-based manufacturer of high-end belts with a wealth of previous experience in creating product for high profile events. It has designed and produced a wonderful range of high-end RWC 2015 branded canvas and leather belts. These include designs which feature classic styling in gold and black with subtle branding, as well as others that represent all 20 of the competing Unions.

Templeton Solutions/ESP Contact: Chris Hoddell T: +44 (0)20 8879 0506 E: cjh@choddell.com

Hugely respected modern English luxury brand specialising in exquisite leather accessories and silverware, Thomas Lyte has produced a prestigious range of high-end leather goods and gold jewellery featuring the Webb Ellis Cup. Further building on its reputation as one of the world's greatest trophy makers, the company has developed an exclusive collection of replica Webb Ellis Cup trophies in different sizes for collectors.

Thomas Lyte Contact: Andrew Jones T: +44 (0)20 7751 8815 E: andrew.jones@thomaslyte.co.uk

Family-owned Awnhill, one of the largest importers and distributors of souvenir merchandise throughout the UK, has created a broad range of RWC 2015 souvenirs. The product portfolio includes umbrellas, stationery, shot glasses, magnets and bag clips. There are also dual branded Rugby World Cup 2015 Shaun the Sheep products, as well as an exciting range featuring the England Rose, specifically for the England Rugby fan.

Awnhill Contact: Hiten Thakrar T: +44 (0)20 8842 4140 E: hiten@awnhill.com

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Rugby fans are Rugby fans come rain or shine - and Peros has just the thing for those damp days!

Its durable adult umbrellas are emblazoned with the all familiar RWC 2015 logo and distinctive colouways.

Peros Contact: Gareth Martin E: Gareth@peros.co.nz

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Leading footwear company, specialising in the importing and sale of shoes and slippers for major retail distribution and specialist sport stores, Aventure has developed a range of footwear for the Tournament.

The stylish range includes country specific designs, which enables fans to wear RWC 2015 slippers in their country colours.

Aventure Contact: Vincent Olivier T: +33 (0)251 94 25 55 E: V.Olivier@ccishoes.com

NIGHTWARE & UNDERWARE

GAMING

UMBRELLAS

One of the leading Rugby brands in the world, Rhino Rugby has become part of the very fabric of the Game itself. It has produced Rugby World Cup 2015 branded contact and training equipment, such as mouth guards, shoulder vests, head guards, kicking tees, training bibs, tackle bags and hit shields featuring the RWC 2015 logo and distinctive livery.

Rhino Rugby Contact: Reg Clark T: +44 (0)208 995 5965 E: regclark@rhinorugby.com

With reputations for excellence in the children's character market, Cooneen and Misirli have been working in partnership to create a range of pure Rugby World Cup 2015 nightwear and underwear, as well as a range of dual-branded RWC 2015 and Shaun the Sheep product.

Cooneen Contact: Mike Coles T: +44 (0)161 276 0310 E: mike.coles@cooneen.com Misirli Contact: Kim Bown T: +44 (0)1162 645860 E: kim@misirli.co.uk

SLIPPERS

Just Mugs has supplied high quality kitchenware and mugs to its discerning customers for nearly 20 years. Its extensive product range includes fine bone china mugs (made in England), which are complemented by in-house designed porcelain/stoneware mugs and kitchenware. Just Mugs knew it would be a perfect choice to provide a cherished keepsake for RWC 2015, and so has produced a range of RWC 2015 branded coffee mugs made from fine bone china.

Just Mugs Contact: Phil Tittensor T: +44 (0)1782 819381 E: philip@justmugs.f2s.com

TRAINING EQUIPMENT

BONE CHINA MUGS

THE PRODUCT LINE-UP

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Recreating the excitement of the stadium experience of the Tournament, Big Ben Interactive is producing the Official Rugby World Cup 2015 video game for all platforms, including Xbox 360 and Playstation 3.

Big Ben Interactive Contact: Benoît Clerc T: +33 (0)320 905 720 E: bleclerc@bigben.fr

With over 20 years of experience in licensed product (specialising in the production and distribution of high quality children's gifts) Rainbow Designs is not at all ‘sheepish’ about its design talents in this field. Its wonderful range of dual branded Rugby World Cup 2015 Shaun the Sheep plush comes in three different sizes and colour schemes, showcasing Shaun in his very own RWC 2015 kit – and he’s in a handy size so ‘ewe’ can carry him with you everywhere you go.

Rainbow Designs Contact: Antony Temple T: +44 (0)203 178 6725 E: antony@drilicensing.com

Well respected for its innovative approach to product design, Touch of Ginger has produced an unusual array of design-led corporate gifts which have already proved very popular among the Tournament’s Worldwide Partners and Official Sponsors, as well as the wider RWC 2015 stakeholders.

Touch of Ginger Contact: Adam Cash T: +44 (0)870 701 9596 E: adam@touchofginger.co.uk

RWC

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THE PRODUCT LINE-UP

AUDIO

A crucial part of any major Tournament are the match day programmes and Sport Media (part of the Trinity Group) will certainly not disappoint.

The publisher will produce and distribute 48 match day programmes in print and electronic format and will use its reach of leading regional news titles to assist with promoting and marketing the Tournament.

In addition it is also publishing the Official Tournament Preview Magazine for RWC 2015 to whet fans’ appetites even before the first kick-off.

Trinity Mirror Sport Media Contact: Will Beedles T: +44 (0)7717 891 411 E: will.beedles@trinitymirror.com

CORPORATE GIFTS

MATCH DAY PROGRAMMES

PLUSH

Ardent Media, the publisher of Family Traveller Magazine (and www.familytraveller.com) is publishing the Official Rugby World Cup 2015 Travel Guide.

Ardent has worked closely with Visit England and all RWC 2015 Host Cities to ensure that the Official Travel Guide encapsulates the best of what the UK has to offer to all Rugby fans out there planning to travel in support of their team.

Family Traveller (Ardent Media) Contact: Andrew Dent T: +44 (0) 20 7812 6374 E: Andrew@familytraveller.com

roval) ve and subject to app (This design is indicati

TRAVEL GUIDE

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Sound Decisions is producing a RWC 2015 branded on-ear radio with optional earphones that will be sold to the general public and supplied to partners (with bespoke branding).

These radios will provide spectators with several channels of audio, including the referee's voice, and commentary (multi language where appropriate). Away from the venues, the radio will function as an ordinary FM radio and with the full RWC 2015 branding will act as an excellent souvenir.

Sound Decisions Contact: Toby Gunter T: +44 (0)7747116701 E: toby.gunter@sounddec.com

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TEAM TALK

Meet The Squad

Team effort is not just important on the pitch – and ESP has an impressive ‘front row’, driving hard so that Rugby World Cup 2015 delivers a high scoring licensing programme.

Left: The ESP team is already in full RWC 2015 spirit! (Left-right) James Whitburn, Kate Worlock, Stephen Wanigesekera and Tim Worlock.

Terry Wilson – Head of RWC 2015 Licensing

James Whitburn – Licensing Director RWC 2015

With more than 20 years’ experience in the licensing and retail industry, Terry joined Elite Sports Properties (ESP) in January 2012 and heads up the licensing team for Rugby World Cup 2015.

Terry’s extensive track record includes driving the global brand strategies for a host of important sporting tournaments and event. These include RWC 2011, Rugby League World Cup 2008, RWC 2003, British Lions Tour, Olympics Sydney 2000, Salt Lake City 2002, Beijing 2008 as well as AFL, NRL, and Cricket World Cup 2007.

James leads the UK licensing team for RWC 2015, drawing on a wealth of international licensing, brand management and legal experience.

Among the high profile sporting events in which he has been heavily involved are the Americas Cup yacht race (for which he created the licensing programme) as well as advising the Olympic organising committee of Sochi 2014, London 2012, Vancouver 2010 and Beijing 2008, on sponsorship and licensing.

Kate Worlock – Brand and Licensing Manager RWC 2015 Kate’s wide-ranging involvement in the licensing programme for RWC 2015 include product development, brand approvals, as well as creative into the advertising and marketing campaigns. Kate joined ESP bringing with her significant experience in brand licensing, experiential marketing and event execution based on her involvement with the London 2012 Olympic & Paralympic Games, Coca-Cola, IMG and Fat Face.

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TEAM TALK

Anne Louise Williams – Licensing Administration Manager Anne Louise has been working on Rugby World Cup 2015 licensing since the formation of the ESP team. She has held various roles within the company, including contracting and financial management and is now working on operational and Tournament planning. The last 15 years has seen Anne Louise hone her experience in sports marketing, account management and licensing. Having lived in Australia, New Zealand and the UK, she has worked on high profile events including Wimbledon and previous Rugby World Cups (as part of IMG) and New Zealand Rugby Union (with VBM).

Tim Worlock – Licensing Administration Manager Tim manages the product development and brand approvals for the RWC 2015 licensing programme. He has extensive events experience, gathered from being part of the retail operations team for the London 2012 Olympics and Paralympic Games, Wimbledon Championships as well as through involvement in the production of ITV’s X Factor live shows.

Stephen Wanigesekera – Licensing Manager Stephen manages the business side of the RWC 2015 licensing programme, which includes licensee relationship management, deal negotiation, contracts, finances, royalties and forecasting. Stephen joined ESP from Electronic Arts, where he looked after the company’s European licensing programme for over eight years while previous to this held positions with sales and marketing organisations for seven years. * Zoe Arnott (currently on maternity leave has recently given birth to twins - a boy and a girl) joined ESP after successful spells at both Turner Broadcasting and The Licensing Company.

About ESP Elite Sports Properties (ESP) was formed in 1996, with the aim of providing the world’s very best in sports marketing, licensing, events and sports talent management.

In addition to Rugby World Cup 2015, ESP is working with Olympiads (including Sir Chris Hoy) as well as teams and talent from the world of cricket, Australian Football League, netball and the media.

In conjunction with the founding partners of the company (Rob Woodhouse, Scott Davidson and Craig Kelly) ESP has built a strong team who have the skills and background to bring to life the RWC 2015 licensing and retail programme.

While ESP’s activities for RWC 2015 are being mainly handled by its London offices (based in Richmond), the company also has management teams in Melbourne, Sydney, Adelaide and Perth.

Want to get in touch about the retail opportunities?

Contact: James Whitburn ESP Licensing Sports Brand Management Services Pty Ltd, Parkshot House, 5 Kew Road, Richmond TW9 2PR Office: 0208 3348172 Direct: 0208 3348174 Mobile: 07748498318

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