A national retailer of professional and college sports apparel is taking over as the new operator of a Penn State clothing and memorabilia shop in downtown State College.
Rally House has acquired Lion & Cub as the 206 E. College Ave. store’s longtime owner prepares for retirement, according to a news release on Tuesday. The company also plans to open a second Centre Region store in the fall at an unspecified location on North Atherton Street.
Lion & Cub, which dates back to 1975, and its Nittany Outlet online retail business will be rebranded as Rally House State College in June. The store is running an everything-must-go-sale, currently offering an additional 20% off the lowest ticketed price on all items.
Benson Lichtig, owner of Lion & Cub, “sought a partner committed to continuing the business’s legacy and maintaining its role as a go-to destination for Penn State Nittany Lions fans,” according to the release. Transitioning ownership to Rally House allows the business to continue rather than closing with his retirement, Lichtig said.
“Serving Penn State fans for nearly 50 years has been an incredible journey,” Lichtig said. “I’ve been lucky to have such dedicated employees and loyal customers, and I’m truly grateful for the support from the State College community. As I enter retirement, I’m proud to pass the business to Rally House, knowing they will continue the tradition for years to come.”
Rally House State College will continue offering Penn State clothing, accessories and collectibles, “with an expanded assortment of officially licensed collegiate apparel, gifts, home décor and locally inspired merchandise,” according to the company.
“We’re honored that the owner entrusted Rally House to continue the legacy of Lion & Cub and Nittany Outlet,” Aaron Liebert, owner and CEO of Rally House, said. “Penn State fans have supported this business for decades, and we look forward to continuing that tradition while bringing even more selection and excitement to the fan experience.”
The acquisition and plans for a second State College area store continue Rally House’s ongoing efforts to expand its physical presence in collegiate markets.
“Rally House plans to build upon the strong foundation established by Lion & Cub and Nittany Outlet while preserving the community-focused spirit that made the business a staple among Penn State supporters,” the company wrote.
The East College Avenue storefront was long known as University Book Centre.
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