By Canadian Press

Edmonton CFL team sees sales spike in Eskimos gear after name change decision

Jul 22, 2020 | 1:54 PM

The CFL team formerly known as the Edmonton Eskimos has seen a significant spike in sales of clothing and other items bearing the now-defunct name.

The organization announced Tuesday it will change the name after mounting pressure from sponsors and fans to drop the moniker seen by some critics as an outdated and derogatory term for Inuit.

CEO Chris Presson says the increased orders come from fans across Canada who now view products bearing the former name as a collector’s item.

He says the team will continue to sell the products with the former name until it runs out of inventory, which he notes is likely higher than is typical for the time of year due to COVID-19 postponing the Canadian Football League’s 2020 season.

Presson says fans will likely see gear with the new name, which is yet to be decided but will likely retain the green-and-gold colour scheme and double-E logo, close to a year from now.

IN THE COMMUNITY

Medicine Hat's Adopt-A-Rink program still seeking volunteers

5h ago

HOLIDAYS

Medicine Hat Kiwanis hosting Christmas dinner

Dec 06, 2024

IN THE COMMUNITY

CHAT News producer makes 'emotional' return to Medicine Hat's old arena

Dec 06, 2024

He says fans will be allowed to wear gear with the old name when games resume.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published July 22, 2020.

The Canadian Press