The University of British Columbia and lululemon athletica are excited to announce a multi-faceted partnership that will see the Vancouver-based company as the principal training and travel apparel supplier for the UBCO Heat and UBC Thunderbirds varsity teams.
"The lululemon partnership is an incredible benefit for our campus and for our Heat student-athletes," said Tom Huisman, UBC Okanagan's Director, Athletics and Recreation. "The opportunity to provide world-class apparel, and to be connected with such an innovative and engaged partner with other special events and initiatives, is something that contributes to our efforts of providing the best student-athlete experience that we can."
As part of this landmark, five-year partnership lululemon will fund collaborative research at the University focused on wellbeing, health and biomaterials.The partnership also includes a scholarship to support two or more awards annually for student-athletes, recreation leaders and other students showing leadership in BIPOC and wellbeing initiatives.
"UBC and lululemon have enjoyed several successful research collaborations in the past, and so it is with great excitement that we deepen this relationship," said Chantelle Murnaghan, lululemon's Vice President, Research and Product Innovation. "Through this R&D and innovation engagement we hope to combine the strength and global influence of lululemon with the brilliant minds at UBC to accelerate the development of new technologies and solutions that advance healthy active lifestyles for all."
"UBC and lululemon are two great brands. We are both excited to bring our global brands together to expand opportunities for UBC Athletic teams, students, and research," added Ainsley Carry, UBC Vice President, Students. "This partnership aligns with UBC's aspirations to become the most inclusive and healthiest campus in Canada." ?
Last fall, students and others within the campus community jumped at the opportunity for an exciting first taste of the collaboration when co-branded apparel went on sale at the UBC and UBCO bookstores.
"At lululemon, we are driven by helping people feel their best," said Leah Taylor, lululemon Vice President, Alternate Channels. "Our partnership in UBC is rooted in supporting students holistically, and we're thrilled to partner in a multi-faceted way to elevate potential and access to wellbeing in the next generation of leaders and athletes."
The results of this unique partnership have been eagerly anticipated. With the new lineup of UBCO Heat and UBC lululemon apparel elevating the comfort and style for student-athletes, coaches, and the respective campus communities.
