Charlotte-based department store chain Belk has partnered with NFL Panthers QB Cam Newton to launch a men's apparel line called MADE Cam Newton. The line will debut in the Spring of '13 and will feature men's professional apparel, accessories and shoes (Belk). In Charlotte, Ely Portillo writes Newton yesterday "notched another victory in the merchandise arena" with his "first foray into clothing." MADE will "join Belk's 20 private brands." Belk President of Merchandising & Marketing Kathryn Bufano said that the company "will also consider adding areas such as children's clothing and women's watches under the 'Cam Newton umbrella.'" Portillo notes men's goods "made up 18 percent of Belk's $868 million worth of sales in its most recent quarter." Newton said that he and Belk "started working together in the offseason." Newton: "This whole fashion ordeal is ... something I've never done before. They did an unbelievable job of taking my ideas and my fashion and making it a brand." Portillo notes Newton has "landed endorsement deals" with Under Armour, Gatorade and Charlotte-based Carolinas HealthCare Systems (CHARLOTTE OBSERVER, 10/9). Also in Charlotte, Tom Sorensen writes, "The timing is terrible. But how could Belk or Newton anticipate when they set this up that the day before Newton would pass for 141 yards in a 16-12 loss to Seattle and the Panthers would be 1-4?" Sorensen: "Even if the option play the Panthers apparently are contractually obligated to run again fails, Newton will look good as he’s driven into the turf" (CHARLOTTE OBSERVER, 10/9).
