The cricket volunteers undertake roles for local clubs such as updating websites, dealing with the media, providing match reports or making teas at a game.

More obvious contributions, of course, such as preparing facilities or coaching kids' teams may directly influence the development of stars of the future. Citigear's niche factory based in Shen Zen China employs 100 skilled staff and supplies bespoke garments from a minimum order of 10 pieces, which is unique within the industry.

UK office support and garment designers are available to a range of customers developing own brand and increasingly event wear product.

The company offers China direct pricing and if required, three week turnarounds.

Managing director Chris Fletcher says: "This service is becoming a much more frequent request within the printwear and promotion industry."

Citigear have worked closely with their manufacturing partners to develop a factory facility capable of meeting the various demands of their customers.

Continues Chris: "The ECB order really displayed our capabilities, contemporary design, quick sampling, quality fabrics and delivery to schedule. vCricket's programme is in place to introduce young people into cricket through volunteering.

"We held lengthy discussions on what type and style of garment  would be welcomed by this target group   -  and worn regularly, which is really important.

"The 420gsm hoodie and the quarter zip Coolmax polo have been particularly well received which is great news for both ourselves and the vCricket team."  Adds Chris: "Our factory offers cut and sew, sublimation, embroidery and print. We have spent a great deal of effort developing our sampling team - we saw this as a priority. Accurate interpretation and fast turn arounds are important to our clients and we believe they are the key to the future progress of our business. 

"We are incredibly flexible; we are currently working on large scale projects for surfwear and equestrian-based clients which both require a very different approach.

"We work with the best fabric manufacturers worldwide and frequently have fabric flown out from Switzerland for production of elite cycling wear." 

A well known UK sports retailer was up and running in two weeks with a full brochure and an own branded teamwear range developed from Citigear's 90 stock designs for rugby, hockey and cricket.

All garments are manufactured with bespoke packaging, swing tags, labelling and neck tapes.

"We really do now provide another option for sportswear retailers to supply big brand quality apparel all at China prices and leverage the improved margin," continues Chris. 

"For an inexperienced garment company to invest in this type of project the timescales and development costs are considerable, company marketing departments simply do not want to get involved with the production aspect.

"With Citigear as a partner they are provided with a safe route and the benefit of sound and impartial advice along the way."

For more information call 01328 856238.

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