REEBOK APPARELS

Classic Reebok PRESTIGE SPORT mens polo shirt. The fabric in just a little more heavier making this shirt perfect for colder evenings or more official functions. 3 button placket short sleeves relaxed fit. 100 medium weight cotton fabric. Slightly warm colors with suble striping. 3 button placket. Reebok vector logo embroidered on left sleeve.Since the launch of the latest F1 collection, we have received a positive response from our consumers and we are already seeing a growth in sales. In fact, the collection is already one of the bestsellers at our online shop, www.shop4reebok.com," Sajid Shamim, brand director Reebok India, said.Sports merchandising is not a new concept in India. Brands have tapped the market big time by associating with cricket, which is like a religion in the country and fans love to imitate their favourite stars in terms of clothes, shoes and other products. In fact, lately youngsters have been buying up football merchandise as well.However, this is F1's debut in the country and Reebok India, Puma and Party Hunterz and Inkfruit.com are happy with the encouraging response to their associated products.To tap the F1 craze -- brands are offering a variety of things from shirts, jackets, caps, trousers to household products like sofa covers and pillows.

The Indian F1, called Airtel Grand Prix, is being held from Oct 28 to 30 at the Buddh International Circuit.Being an official sportswear partner for Force India, Reebok has dedicated a collection of apparel and accessories inspired by the Force India F1 team.Shamim admits that F1 has always been a niche sport in the country, but he feels it is fast catching up among youth and therefore they plan to cash in on the trend by launching something different in March.We are the official licensees for Ferrari and the Ferrari range is one of our most aspirational and best moving lines. We have seen a lot of interest from consumers because it allows them to own a little bit of the Indian F1 action and support the biggest motor-sporting event that our country has seen till date," Rajiv Mehta, managing director, PUMA India, said.Sports merchandise is going through an exciting phase and Mehta says, "Next year, you will see a range of Mercedes GP merchandise available at our stores."

Thanks to the metrosexual look, accessories have become an important part of youngsters' wardrobe.Party Hunterz, a one-stop shop for party accessories, has launched a variety of products -- chequered flags, wigs, drinking helmets and air horns. They have also launched many items for fans to plan F1 home parties such as balloons, table covers, cups and banners.