Ulster suffer another financial blow after being forced into late discounted deal with kit supplier
Ulster's deal with Kukri concludes at the end of the 2023/24 season
Ulster are set to be hit with another financial blow after being forced to agree a discounted deal with kit supplier Castore for the upcoming season.
The province had reportedly agreed a deal in principle with Kappa for them to take over from long-time kit suppliers Kukri for next season, however the Italian sportswear brand broke off negotiations, leaving the province scrambling for a new supplier.
In the end, Ulster have gone with English manufacturer Castore, who currently supply the likes of Leinster and Glentoran FC and will take over as the supplier of the team’s game-day attire, as well as merchandise.
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However, sources within Ulster have informed the Belfast Telegraph that, due to the late withdrawal of Kappa from the process and the need to turn around next season’s gear quickly, Castore have come on board at a fraction of the price.
It is understood that other manufacturers were keen on working with Ulster after Kappa’s departure but were unable to make the timeframe work, leaving Castore as the only viable option.
It is another hefty hit for financially-strapped Ulster, who are also searching for a replacement for flagship sponsor Kingspan during a cost of living crisis after the building company announced they would not be renewing their deal on a long-term basis, extending for just another year until mid-2025.
There will also be concerns over the quality of what Castore can produce after multiple criticisms levelled at their product.
Most notably, Premier League side Aston Villa dropped them as their supplier earlier this year following criticism from both their men’s and women’s players that their shirts changed colour and became too heavy and uncomfortable when they became soaked in sweat.
Meanwhile, Ulster’s Zac Ward was named Sevens Player of the Year at the Rugby Players Ireland awards in Dublin on Wednesday night.
The son of former Ulster player Andy, Ballynahinch club man Ward has emerged as one of the Sevens side’s top stars on the World Series circuit.
Ward beat Terry Kennedy and Harry McNulty to the prize.
Ireland and Leinster lock Joe McCarthy was named Nevin Spence Young Player of the Year, named after the late Ulster centre.
