Winthrop has partnered with Affinity Licensing to manage the university's trademark
licensing program. Winthrop becomes one of the founding partners of Affinity's new collegiate division.
ROCK HILL, SOUTH CAROLINA - Winthrop University is pleased to announce a new partnership
with Affinity Licensing to manage the university's trademark licensing program. Winthrop becomes one of the founding partners of Affinity's new collegiate division.
"We are extremely excited about the new partnership with Affinity," said Ken Halpin, Winthrop's director of athletics. "Their experience in the licensing industry and
enthusiasm for Winthrop will be instrumental in bringing more consistency to our branding
efforts, putting more Eagle merchandise into the marketplace and ultimately growing
the Winthrop brand throughout our area."
As part of the agreement, which took effect July 1, Affinity will act as the exclusive
licensing agency to manage the university's consumer products licensing relationships
with manufacturers and retailers. The university will have access to innovative technology
and processes that allow for better brand protection, as well as leverage Affinity's
retail and merchandising expertise to expand product categories, launch new products
and grow retail distribution.
"We are extremely grateful to be chosen as Winthrop University's licensing partner,"
said Wil Spires, partner of Affinity Licensing. "Our core values, experience and passion
for helping universities grow their brands through innovative licensing and merchandising
strategies align perfectly with Winthrop's vision in creating a better approach to
brand management. It is a special honor to welcome the Eagles as one of Affinity's
first collegiate clients."
About Winthrop University
Founded in 1886, Winthrop is a public, comprehensive university committed to being
a national model for a student-centered university experience. With an enrollment
of over 6,100 students, Winthrop sponsors 18 NCAA Division I intercollegiate sports
and is a member of the Big South Conference.
About Affinity
Affinity Licensing is a values-based trademark licensing agency with partners offering
more than 100 years of collective licensing expertise providing personalized service,
industry leading technology and strategic revenue objectives to deliver a better approach
to brand management. Affinity Licensing has offices in Carlsbad, California, and
Winston-Salem, North Carolina.
