Fédération Française de Rugby, the governing body for rugby union in France, has named ORECA as its official online store partner, in a deal brokered by the federation’s licensing agency, IMG.

Under the new partnership, ORECA will operate the online Fédération Française de Rugby shop, sales promotion and marketing, using the re-branded France Rugby logo and identity. The launch of the new website last week coincides with the intoduction of the new France Rugby jersey developed by Le Coq sportif.

Serge Simon, vice president of Fédération Française de Rugby, said: “The different rugby teams are at the dawning of big challenges for the years to come, during which the Fédération Française de Rugby is also pursuing its digital transformation.

“The French Rugby Federation is therefore proud to launch its new eCommerce shop, where all supporters and rugby fans will be able to embrace products that bear our famous rooster. This new platform will provide the opportunity to showcase the new jersey of the French rugby teams.”

Raphaël de Chaunac, vice president of ORECA, added: “We are delighted with this collaboration, which represents a business diversification for our company and we would like to thank FFR and IMG. Becoming the official online store operator of France Rugby highlights that we are at the service of the fans and the people practicing this sport.”

Mickael Andreo, vice president of licensing, IMG, added: “We are entering a highly strategic period for rugby in France with last month marking three years to go until France hosts Rugby World Cup 2023. Working with specialists in each area of the licensing ecosystem, we will allow the FFR to reach out to the fans with a compelling, qualitative and adapted product offer and services. We are delighted to welcome ORECA as part of our licensee family.”

Rugby World Cup 2023 will be played across nine cities in France and will take place September, 8th 2023 – October, 21 2023.