A well-known Boston sports apparel brand that has been a favorite among longtime Red Sox fans for decades has been acquired by New Era, a Buffalo competitor. The acquisition marks the end of an era for ‘47, a brand that was previously known as Twins Enterprise for most of its history. However, despite the change in ownership, ‘47 will retain its local headquarters in Westwood, according to the announcement made by New Era last week.
The name ‘47 is derived from the year in which it was established and the company grew to become a prominent apparel brand that became closely associated with the fan experience outside Fenway Park. Founded by twins Henry and Arthur D’Angelo, ‘47 was recognized for being the first to produce team pennants, as per Major League Baseball records. With its store across Jersey Street from the ballpark often crowded with fans on game days, ‘47 had become synonymous with Red Sox fandom.
New Era, on the other hand, is a leading global provider of sporting goods and apparel products that has been in business since 1920. The company has grown into one of the largest manufacturers and distributors of baseball hats and T-shirts in the world and is widely regarded as one of the most recognizable brands in sports. With their acquisition of ‘47, New Era is expanding its portfolio of sports apparel brands and strengthening its presence in key markets around the world.
