RANGERS say they are ‘surprised and disappointed’ after it emerged that the Light Blues’ kit for this season will be sold from Thursday morning.
SportTimes revealed in June that Gers fans would not be able to purchase the new Puma manufactured strips for the 2016/17 campaign after the Ibrox board terminated the IP Licence and Rights Agreement with Rangers Retail Limited earlier this year.
It was the latest development in the long-running saga over Rangers’ merchandise after supporters vowed to boycott club shops and Sports Direct stores in protest at the controversial retail deals in place with Mike Ashley’s firm.
READ MORE: Club 1872 urge Rangers fans to continue merchandise boycott after latest Ibrox retail drama
A number of shops - including Sports Direct outlets - have taken delivery of Rangers' home, away and third kits in recent days and will start selling them to supporters from tomorrow morning.
But Rangers are unhappy at the way the situation has developed after it emerged fans will now have the chance to buy the strips Mark Warburton’s side will wear in the Premiership after all.
READ MORE: Club 1872 urge Rangers fans to continue merchandise boycott after latest Ibrox retail drama
A club statement read: “Since terminating the IP Licence and Rights Agreement with Rangers Retail Limited, the Club has made its best efforts to engage with PUMA on an agreed way forward without the involvement of Sports Direct for the manufacture of replica kits and other merchandise to supporters.
“During discussions it emerged that PUMA had manufactured some replica kit after receiving purchase orders directly from Sports Direct and without the prior knowledge or agreement of the Club and its directors on the Rangers Retail Limited board, Paul Murray and David King.
“Despite requests to Sports Direct and PUMA we have not been able to ascertain full details of this arrangement or to reconcile it with the commercial contracts that were in place between the Club and Rangers Retail Limited.
READ MORE: Club 1872 urge Rangers fans to continue merchandise boycott after latest Ibrox retail drama
“The Club has not been party to discussions on the launch of kit sales by PUMA this week. We were first notified of their intentions after close of business on Friday last week.
“We are surprised and disappointed by the lack of consultation with the Club and/or supporters groups prior to the launch.”
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