Harbhajan Singh to become a brand
16 Apr 2009
Cricketer Harbhajan Singh has sold licensing rights to his name as a brand to Delhi-based License India.
This development is the first-of-its kind in the history of Indian cricket. As a result there is a possibility of seeing the off-spinner's name being used in various types of merchandise and even in chain of restaurants as 'Bhajji Da Dhaba'.
Gaurav Marya, License India president said that licensing is a $191-billion business worldwide, although it is still nascent in India. Since Harbhajan is one of the most recognised faces of Indian cricket, the group decided to sign an agreement with him.
He added that the company would explore avenues to design and develop the brand 'Harbhajan' with Harbhajan Singh also feels that having one's own brand and merchandise and a restaurant chain would bring him closer to his fans.
Besides apparels and accessories, his brand will figure in other segments also.
Singh is the first cricketer to have signed a licensing agreement with License India, which had earlier entered into agreements with management guru Shiv Khera and the children's book series Diamond Comics.
License India has started the process to identify prospective partners and franchise operators for brand Harbhajan Singh and want to roll out first products into the market by end of 2009.
