Provision of branded merchandise for onsite shop

Descriptions

Infinity was the approved supplier for branded merchandise for the University's on-campus gift shop, which was operated externally by Unique. Infinity also operated the online merchandise store, with fulfilment of online orders managed by Unique. All merchandise supplied by Infinity to Unique was approved by the University's brand team, with under signed Heads of Terms for use of branding valid until July 2027.

Following Unique's unexpected liquidation last week, both the physical gift shop and the online store ceased operations immediately. This has resulted in a complete halt in the availability of official University merchandise, which is considered as negatively impacting the student experience and posing a risk to brand reputation.

To mitigate this disruption, the University is implementing a contingency plan to bring all aspect of the gift shop including merchandise operations in-house. To ensure continuity and maintain brand integrity, immediate access to branded stock is required - stock that aligns with previously approved designs and possibly stock items acquired from the liquidator. Infinity is uniquely positioned to supply this merchandise without delay, given their existing approvals, familiarity with our brand standards and arrangements that were in place for the University Campus.

Conducting a full competitive tender at this stage would introduce a significant delay, during which the University would remain unable to offer official merchandise. This direct award until the expiry of the Heads of Terms enables the University to restore both physical and online merchandise availability within 10-14 days, ensuring continuity of service and safeguarding the University's brand presence and integrity.