CARLSBAD, Calif., Aug. 20, 2013 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Upper Deck and Wayne Gretzky have had a close relationship since the company began producing NHL® licensed trading cards back in 1990. Gretzky has been a long-standing partner with Upper Deck on the trading card side of the business, and under this new deal Upper Deck will be the exclusive home of Gretzky's autographed memorabilia as well.
"As Upper Deck approaches its 25th Anniversary, the announcement of our expanded partnership with Wayne Gretzky couldn't be better," said Jason Masherah, president of Upper Deck. "While Upper Deck collectors continue to get excited about pulling Gretzky autographs from our hockey card packs, puck fans can now look forward to an amazing portfolio of Wayne Gretzky autographed memorabilia as well. We will offer several unique memorabilia pieces that are sure to be a hit with Gretzky fans everywhere."
A few highlights of the new collection include a "Tegata" print, a traditional form of Japanese memorabilia reserved only for the most elite athletes. The Gretzky Tegata will showcase an actual inked hand print, displayed over an intricate mosaic background featuring his most famous moments and action shots.
"The Show" will offer collectors the largest Wayne Gretzky autographed display ever produced. This Upper Deck exclusive piece will measure a whopping 46 by 20 inches, and features a colossal signature over two feet in length alongside an action packed shot of Gretzky. Upper Deck will also produce a series of limited edition "Curve" displays, where a unique Gretzky image and autographed puck combine for a dramatic visual inside of a dynamic 8.5" x 11" curve-shaped display.
Upper Deck will share details on compelling new Wayne Gretzky collectibles in the coming weeks with many items available for fans to purchase through the company's new online store ( www.upperdeckstore.com ). Wayne Gretzky joins Michael Jordan, LeBron James, Tiger Woods, Rory McIlroy and Landon Donovan as exclusive athletes for Upper Deck.
About Upper Deck
Upper Deck is the leading sports and entertainment trading card and collectibles company, and is home to The World's Greatest Memorabilia™. For more information on Upper Deck and its products please visit www.upperdeck.com .
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Chris Carlin Sports Marketing & Social Media Manager The Upper Deck Company (760)929-3159
