Leicester’s title win causes a surge in global merchandise sales

REUTERS – Leicester City’s march to the Premier League title has been accompanied by a surge in sales revenue, with the club’s global merchandise exports doubling this season. According to statistics released on Friday by DHL, the club’s official logistics partner, the United States now imports more Leicester shirts, mugs and general merchandise than any other country, four times more than the next biggest importer, Australia. Leicester merchandise was exported to a total of 66 countries – more than twice as many as at the start of the season – while the efforts of Leicester manager Claudio Ranieri and striker Shinji Okazaki boosted sales in Italy and, respectively, Japan. “It’s been brilliant to see the team’s hard work and dedication pay off this season,” said Ian Flanagan, Leicester’s commercial director. “And because of the success on the field, we’ve also had great success for the business. As our team becomes more globally renowned, it is important that we continue to reach our fans wherever they are.” (Writing by Simon Cambers; Editing by Andrew Roche)