Newcastle Cuts Ties with Castore over Subpar Shirt Quality

Newcastle Parts Ways with Castore Due to Complaints about Shirt Quality

Newcastle United Football Club has announced that it will no longer be partnering with sportswear brand Castore as its kit manufacturer after receiving numerous complaints from supporters about the poor quality of merchandise. According to Telegraph Sport, the club received a significant number of complaints about the company’s poor customer service and long delays in order deliveries. The lack of available stock in Castore stores in the city and the subpar quality of some products were also cited as issues.

Complaints from Aston Villa Players

Earlier this week, it was reported that Aston Villa players, both men and women, had also expressed their dissatisfaction with the Castore shirts. The players complained that the shirts became drenched with sweat during matches, hindering their performance. Villa’s director of football operations, Damian Vidagany, acknowledged the issue and stated that the marketing department was working with the supplier to address the problem.

No Quality or Reliability Issues Reported by Newcastle Players

It is worth noting that no quality or reliability issues were reported by Newcastle players regarding their Castore kit since the partnership began in the summer of 2021. Despite this, the club decided to terminate the contract with Castore and sign a new deal with Adidas, starting from next season.

Newcastle‘s Move to Adidas

Newcastle‘s decision to switch to Adidas as their kit manufacturer was disclosed in the recent Amazon Prime documentary “We Are Newcastle United.” The club’s board members were shown in a meeting with Adidas executives in Germany. Sources indicate that the deal with Adidas is not only more lucrative but also guarantees stronger and more reliable supply chains and better quality control. Adidas is reported to be paying around £40 million per season to manufacture and supply Newcastle‘s kit for the next five years.

Adidas’ Historical Connection with Newcastle

Newcastle‘s board was also influenced by the fact that Adidas was the kit manufacturer during the club’s successful periods under managers Kevin Keegan and Sir Bobby Robson. This historical connection likely played a role in the decision to partner with Adidas once again.

Castore‘s Response and Newcastle‘s Statement

A spokesperson for Castore expressed pride in the three-year partnership with Newcastle United and indicated that they look forward to continuing the collaboration this season. Newcastle, in their statement, affirmed that they found the quality of Castore products to be extremely high and expressed appreciation for the brand’s support over the past three seasons.

Aston Villa Women’s Complaints

In addition to the concerns raised by Aston Villa men’s players, complaints have also surfaced from the women’s team regarding this season’s Castore shirts. Villa players have described the kit as feeling unpleasant to play in, while others have expressed deep concern and a hope for a swift solution.

Risks for Villa in the Women’s Super League

Villa’s women’s team is scheduled to kick off their season against Manchester United on Sunday, with the match being televised. The concerns about the kit, if not addressed, could attract unwanted attention during the opening stages of the Women’s Super League campaign. Villa, who finished fifth in the table last season, will also face Liverpool in a televised match on the second weekend of the season.

Possible Future Partnership with Adidas

Notably, Villa’s co-owner Nassef Sawiris holds a stake in German sports manufacturer Adidas. Speculation has arisen that Villa could pursue a partnership with Adidas, similar to Newcastle‘s move, in the future.

Conclusion

The decision by Newcastle United to end its partnership with Castore and switch to Adidas as its kit manufacturer highlights the importance of product quality and customer satisfaction in the world of football sponsorships. Complaints from both supporters and players about poor quality, customer service, and delivery delays have led to the termination of the contract. Newcastle hopes that the new deal with Adidas will not only provide financial benefits but also ensure top-notch product quality and reliable supply chains. Aston Villa, facing similar concerns with the Castore shirts, will need to address the issues promptly to avoid affecting the performance and reputation of its men’s and women’s teams. The possible future move to Adidas, driven by Villa’s co-owner’s connections, may offer a potential solution for the club.