New kits of four Super League teams stolen as leading manufacturer hit by highway robbery

Leading rugby league kit manufacturer Elite Pro Sports, who are responsible for providing merchandise to Leeds Rhinos, Hull KR, Huddersfield Giants and Castleford Tigers, has suffered a major highway robbery of the latest Oxen kit and training range for the four Yorkshire clubs.

In the early hours of Thursday 6^th October, thieves broke into the back of a lorry transporting the goods and stole a significant quantity of merchandise. It included some replica shirts and training wear for all four clubs for the new 2023 season.

Speaking on the Elite Pro Sports website, Chief Executive Lee Jenkinson said: “This is devastating news. As with all local business in the current climate, it is a tough trading environment and things like this are a real blow.

“As with most manufacturers of clothing, our production time is months rather than weeks and it will be a challenge to get some of these items back in stock before Christmas.

“Replica shirts are our most popular items, especially for younger fans, ahead of Christmas and whilst we will do everything we can to make sure no one is disappointed, a callous act like this is a hit we could do without.

“We know that our clubs rely heavily on retail sales prior to Christmas, and we will be working closely with them to ensure this is as minimal as possible.

“The goods which have been stolen, are new designs and not yet on the market. Therefore, we will be able to quickly identify anyone looking to sell these items on.”

It is urged that anyone who is offered 2023 Leeds Rhinos, Hull KR, Huddersfield Giants or Castleford Tigers merchandise should contact the Police on the non-emergency number 101. You can also email Elite Pro Sports on customerservices@eliteprosports.co.uk.

Elite Pro Sports are also responsible for the sale of England RL merchandise, and you can help support the cause and your country ahead of the Rugby League World Cup by accessing the latest kit and training wear here.