There is more to sportswear than the clothing you wear for beneficial performance, or simply to train or jog in. The other side of sportswear is for the promotional wearer, and for those who will clothing to cheer on those who are exerting themselves on the field or track.

This is a whole market that is serviced by the promotional brands, whom the fans are provided for by the clubs and associations and we all know how fans like to wear good quality clothing that not only fits comfortable, but also looks good on the wearer and creates the maximum impact.

Among the brands providing clothing to these supporters is West Bromwich-based Mann Brothers, who are in the business of providing sporting leisurewear to football clubs up and down the UK. Development of its business has seen a full range of T-shirts, polos, fleeces and jackets produced to the specification of the football club for its fans.

The development in fabrics, particularly in the outerwear ranges, is exemplary of the capabilities of the company. Utilising fabrics such as bonded fleece - a cotton layer on a foam bonded fabric - and breathable and waterproof ripstop nylon into its garments has seen Mann Brothers step ahead of its competitors in what it can offer to its customers.

Director Mark Wilkes said, ‘We’re a lot more forward thinking than other football suppliers in the fabrics, styles and designs we can provide. A lot of clubs stay very strict to their team colours and styles but often they are prepared to move away and try something a bit different, if the styles are right for the supporters’ needs then they will sell.’

The company has been involved in the supply of supporters merchandise for several years, since an incident in a Premier League team’s club shop where Mark made an offer to the buyer after witnessing the poor quality of its existing merchandise, and subsequently offered Mann Brother’s better quality products.

Mark explained that as well as the football market, which counts for around 60% of the company’s business, it also supplies rugby clubs and other sporting teams. The company also supply to lower league football teams who may not have a range of leisurewear merchandise, allowing Mann Brothers to capitalise with its expertise and experience.

While the merchandise is a primary business for Mann Brothers, the company also offers a range of clothing through its brands Sunburn and Frostbite. Both ranges will be increased in 2006 with new styles, but at present it features a wide range of outerwear including common waterproof and showerproof jackets, with more heavy options in its 100% textured nylon Cuba jacket and 70/30 Wool/Viscose Moscow Hooded Duffle Coat.

The bespoke offering, which the company initially offers to sporting clubs but is also open to other customers, has a minimum order of 200 pieces and can be delivered from production despatch at the company’s factory in India within 18 days. The outerwear styles are offered from stock. Mark said, ‘All of the lines that we are currently offering on our website are in stock now and ready for despatch.’

For further information on Mann Brothers, contact the company on 0121 553 7156. Visit the newly-launched website at www.mannbrothersltd.co.uk.

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