The NFL is launching a program called Leaders under which “brands, collaborators and artists from diverse backgrounds and underrepresented communities can obtain NFL licenses to manufacture and sell products with official league marks and logos,” according to Jean Palmieri of WOMEN’S WEAR DAILY. The people selected “will also have access to NFL resources” such as product development, marketing support and retail placement. The “inaugural brands” under the Leaders program are Blitz Champz, Distortedd, Hedley & Bennett and S.T.A.B.L.E. Goods. Blitz Champz is an “NFL collection of playing cards for each of the league’s 32 teams.” Distortedd produced a “T-shirt collection inspired by NFL team mascots and logos.” Hedley & Bennett “created NFL-themed pro-level cooking essentials and accessories,” and S.T.A.B.L.E. Goods “will create NFL-themed duffel bags, cross-body bags and backpacks.” The NFL has collaborated with No Caller ID, a sports and media intellectual property marketplace to “assist in managing the Leaders program and source other brands to be included in the future” (WOMEN’S WEAR DAILY, 12/11).
