Car firm Mini due to launch branded set of trainers

Mini is launching a range of branded trainers after signing a deal with Japanese footwear brand Onitsuka Tiger. The limited edition range goes on sale across the UK on December 1.

The launch of the shoes has been timed to coincide with the arrival of Mini’s latest model, the Clubman, which will available from November 10. The BMW-owned marque is also launching a range of luggage in association with Finduck, the company behind the Mandarina Duck brand.

The Mini trainers will be sold at Onitsuka Tiger stores, selected fashion outlets and Mini dealers throughout the country. They will be available in three colour combinations – chocolate/cream, black/silver and cream/ British green – and will be aimed at men and women.

Mini, which already has a clothing range, is the latest vehicle maker to extend its brand into other merchandise in recent years.

Yamaha, the world’s second-biggest motorcycle manufacturer, launched a clothing and accessories range at the start of this year to capitalise on the popularity of its MotoGP team rider Valentino Rossi (MW January 25). The product range – which includes T-shirts, sweatshirts, baseball caps and backpacks – is called the Vale Collection and features the five-time world champion’s racing number and signature.

The move followed a similar launch by iconic motorcycle manufacturer HarleyDavidson at the end of 2005 (MW October 27, 2005). The company, which has sold branded products in the US for more than 20 years, signed a licensing deal with The Beanstalk Group to launch a range of toys and a children’s clothing line to boost the brand’s appeal with younger consumers.