Zappos becomes exclusive UFC wholesaler in U.S.

Zappos.com will create officially licensed fan gear and lifestyle apparel for UFC.

The online footwear and accessories retailer, an independent subsidiary of Amazon, is entering a multi-year partnership with the leading mixed martial arts (MMA) organization. Both companies are headquartered in Las Vegas.

Under the terms of the agreement, Zappos.com will manufacture and distribute officially-licensed UFC merchandise for men, women and youth, including clothing, footwear, headwear, and other accessories. Specific products will include items such as t-shirts, hoodies, pants, shorts, sandals, warmup jackets, leggings, and running and training footwear. Zappos.com will have the rights on an exclusive basis in the U.S. and non-exclusively outside the U.S.

Zappos.com will roll out UFC products through online retail channels starting in January 2021, and UFC merchandise is currently available on the Zappos.com e-commerce site.
 
"Through our partnership with UFC, we're excited to bring WOW to a whole new customer," said Kedar Deshpande, CEO, Zappos.com. "It's a very natural relationship – we're both Las Vegas-based organizations that share a passion for inclusivity which extends into the fitness world. UFC celebrates all its athletes equally, and we couldn't be more humbled to welcome them into the Zappos family."

"Our merchandise and apparel are primary touch points that help connect our fans with UFC's brand," said Tracey Bleczinski, senior VP, UFC global consumer products.  "Zappos is a company of innovators, their customer service is without equal, and their reach is global. We couldn't ask for a better brand to help us serve the more than 300 million UFC fans worldwide."