Soccer Shirt Shortages Due to Supply Chain Delays Ahead of New Season

The release of new soccer shirts, a key revenue source for English clubs, faces delays due to supply chain issues ahead of the 2022-23 season. Only 44 of 92 clubs have their new merchandise available, with 19 clubs lacking any new shirts for fans as the season kickoff approaches.

LONDON — The introduction of a new soccer shirt each summer marks a significant commercial event for English clubs. This year, however, logistical challenges have created shortages, impacting merchandise availability just before the English Premier League’s 2022-23 season begins. Scheduled to kick off with Crystal Palace facing Arsenal on Friday, many fans may find their club’s gear hard to obtain due to these delays.

As reported by the BBC in late July, only 44 of 92 clubs within the top four English divisions had their new home and away shirts available for purchase. Furthermore, up to 19 clubs had neither shirt type ready for their supporters, leaving noticeable inventory shortages in club stores across the nation. With the new season’s excitement, these supply chain disruptions present a unique challenge to clubs and fans alike.

Original Source: asia.nikkei.com