Ace Web Experts

47 brand

Early Beginnings and Founding

In 1947, Arthur and Henry D’Angelo, two Italian immigrants, began their entrepreneurial journey with a street cart outside Fenway Park, selling baseball pennants and other memorabilia. This humble start marked the birth of what would eventually become 47 Brand, a globally recognized name in sports merchandise. The name ’47 pays homage to the year the business was founded, encapsulating the heritage and dedication of its founders.

The Expansion and Growth

By 1965, the D’Angelo brothers had expanded their venture by purchasing a 2,000-square-foot retail space on Yawkey Way to sell Red Sox souvenirs. Their business, originally called Twins Enterprise, quickly became a staple for sports fans. In 2010, the company rebranded itself as ’47 Brand, reflecting its broader ambitions and diverse product range, including the iconic 47 brand hats and 47 caps.

Diversification and Licensing Deals

47 Brand’s portfolio grew significantly over the years, establishing itself as a key player in the sports merchandise industry. In 2011, ’47 opened its first brick-and-mortar store on Newbury Street in Boston. Although the store closed in 2020, it marked an important milestone in the brand’s retail expansion. In 2012, 47 Brand ventured into football fanwear, launching a line of official National Football League (NFL) headwear, which solidified its presence in the football merchandise market.

Further licensing agreements followed, including a partnership with Major League Soccer (MLS) in 2015, making ’47 the official licensed on-field partner for four teams in the Cape Cod Baseball League. This expansion continued with partnerships across major sports, including a notable deal with Liverpool Football Club (Liverpool FC) in 2015, and exclusive headwear deals with Georgia and Cal State in 2016. By 2020, Ohio State had also joined ’47’s impressive licensing roster.

Major Milestones and Collaborations

One of the significant milestones for ’47 was its partnership with Carhartt in 2018 to create NFL headwear. This collaboration underscored ’47’s commitment to blending sports fashion with functional workwear. Additionally, the company secured rights to produce caps for MLB on-field postseason celebrations and obtained a license for Major Baseball League International (MLBI) merchandise.

In 2017, ’47 expanded its licensing arrangement with the National Basketball Association (NBA), covering current NBA team logos on adult apparel and headwear. This agreement allowed ’47 to create products for major NBA events, including the NBA All-Star, NBA Playoffs, and NBA Finals.

Recent Developments and Global Reach

In 2023, ’47 further solidified its international presence by opening a pop-up store in London, coinciding with two MLB games at the London Stadium. This move was a testament to ’47’s global ambitions and its rich American heritage. The same year, ’47 partnered with NASCAR, offering a premium suite of products to the NASCAR fanbase, marking another significant addition to its brand universe.

The Legacy of the D’Angelo Brothers

The legacy of the D’Angelo brothers is deeply intertwined with the history of 47 Brand. Arthur and Henry were not only entrepreneurs but also pioneers in the sports licensed industry. Their close association with the Boston Red Sox and players like Ted Williams highlighted their influence and passion for sports. In 2013, Arthur D’Angelo was honored by the Red Sox and former Mayor Thomas Menino with a street named “Arthur’s Way” near Fenway Park.

The Future of 47 Brand

In early June 2024, the president of 47 announced that the company would be acquired by New Era, marking a new chapter in its storied history. This acquisition promises to bring new opportunities and further growth for the iconic brand.

Conclusion

From a street cart outside Fenway Park to a global sports merchandise icon, the journey of 47 Brand is a testament to the entrepreneurial spirit and dedication of its founders, Arthur and Henry D’Angelo. Today, 47 Brand continues to thrive, offering a wide range of products including 47 brand hats, 47 caps, and exclusive sport hats. With a legacy built on passion and innovation, 47 Brand remains a beloved name among sports fans worldwide.