Bay of Plenty Steamers colours will run throughout the various playing levels this year following the announcement of a new official apparel supplier.

The Bay of Plenty Rugby Union have signed an initial three-year agreement with Samurai, a privately owned English company, to include playing and training uniforms as well as apparel for staff, referees, representative teams and merchandise.

Bay of Plenty Rugby Union chief executive Mike Rogers and Samurai director Helen Clarke after signing a three-year apparel deal.

Bay of Plenty Rugby Union chief executive Mike Rogers says the company is well placed to cater for club and school requirements, meaning an increased synergy in the appearance of Bay of Plenty representatives at every level.

The company has been directed to get creative with a new sevens look, but told to keep the traditional blue and gold hoops for the Steamers and other representative teams.

Mike is pleased to have the deal in place leading up to the beginning of the various 2013 campaigns.

'The union is really excited to be partnering with Samurai Sportswear.

'We were really impressed with their ability to cater for all our requirements from age grade and referees through to the Steamers.

He says the team at Samurai have already shown innovation and a willingness to promote the Bay of Plenty brand with quality apparel and the union is looking forward to working with the company for the next three years.

Samurai director Helen Clarke echoed Mike's statements saying she is excited to enter into a long term partnership as apparel sponsor with the union.

'Bay of Plenty is an energetic and innovative union which fits extremely well with Samurai's culture of cutting edge kit design.

'We can't wait to watch the Bay teams and referees take to the field in their new Samurai gear.”

A date for the release of the new merchandise has yet to be set.

The Bay of Plenty Steamers will open their 2013 ITM Cup campaign against Otago in Dunedin on Sunday, August 18.