Fanatics and Air Force Academy Announce Expanded Omnichannel Retail Partnership
Colorado Springs, CO (August 15, 2018) – The Air Force Academy Athletic Corporation (AFAAC) announced today a multi-year partnership with Fanatics, the global leader in licensed sports merchandise, to exclusively manage and operate its onsite team stores and retail outlets. Fanatics has powered e-commerce for the school since 2014, and this enhanced partnership will now create a seamless online and offline shopping experience for fans with an expanded assortment of high-quality, readily accessible merchandise and fan gear.
Fanatics will create an elevated retail experience for fans shopping at team stores and kiosks across the Air Force Academy campus through new state-of-the-art POS software, dynamic fixtures and updated signage. Upgraded container stores at Falcon Stadium will roll out for the Falcons’ first home game on September 1, and renovations are already underway at the team’s flagship store on the United States Air Force Academy’s campus.
“We are thrilled to expand our partnership with Fanatics to help give Air Force Athletics fans the ultimate buying experience,” said AFAAC CEO Dr. Nancy Hixson. “Our fans are deployed around the globe and we want them to have a first-class buying experience both at the team store and online. Fanatics has an unprecedented reputation in the market and their quality is second to none.”
Fanatics’ rapid supply chain and quick-strike manufacturing capabilities will ensure Falcons fans have access to the most robust assortments of merchandise across men’s, women’s and kids’ categories, with the ability to create “micro-moment” products for unpredictable team feats and incredible performances.
“At Fanatics, we take tremendous pride in serving those who have served, and we appreciate that when partnering with those in the armed forces, you’re accepting a big responsibility. We are thrilled with the opportunity to grow our partnership with the Air Force Academy and to implement an innovative, fully connected shopping experience - including operation of the Air Force Academy Gift Shop located in the Visitors Center – for the passionate Falcons fan base and current cadets,’” said Cole Gahagan, Fanatics Chief Commercial Officer. “There is tremendous pride and tradition associated with the Academy, and we’re proud to join forces on this new, robust omnichannel retail offering.”