NC-based Rival, the hockey apparel manufacturing joint
venture of the NHL and Texfi Industries, "is in
negotiations" with the league to get its brand on NHL player
jerseys, according to Terry Lefton of BRANDWEEK. In the
talks, former NHLE President Rick Dudley is negotiating with
his former employees on behalf of Mentmore Holdings, his new
employer, which owns part of Texfi. Other new entrants
"vying for on-ice branding" include Champion and Pro Player,
along with incumbents Nike, CCM and Starter. A decision "is
expected before summer's end" (BRANDWEEK, 7/20).
RIVAL GOES GRASS-ROOTS IN PROMO EFFORT: Rival is adding
performance roller hockey apparel in spring '99, including
the "Elite Pant" and "Elite Jersey." The pant features the
Rival logo on 3M reflective ribbon side stripes, while the
jersey features an embroidered logo on the front left
shoulder. Team Rival Michigan, which competes in the North
American Roller Hockey Championships and the American In-
Line Roller Hockey Series, will wear the new apparel at
upcoming events. The apparel is available for Spring '99 in
national and regional sporting goods outlets (Rival).
DODGE-ING NOBODY: BRANDWEEK's Terry Lefton reports that
the NHL has "all but completed" a re-up with corporate
partner Dodge -- the league's "largest" sponsor. The new
deal will include NHLPA rights as well (BRANDWEEK, 7/20).
