LOVE IT or loathe it, sales of Everton’s 2012/13 home shirt continue to go from strength to strength.

Since the launch of the Club’s inaugural Nike home kit earlier this month, sales are up over 20 per cent on last year.

The overall commercial response to the much-anticipated kit proved positive from the moment it was unveiled, with first-day pre-order sales up a massive 73 per cent on 2011.

Peter Reid was in store at Everton One to meet supporters at the official kit launch and was keen to make sure he secured the new home shirt that night too.

Commercial director Dave Biggar said: “The launch of the new home kit was a great success and although it’s only the start of the campaign, we’re delighted with the sales thus far and hope they continue to soar.

“We’re excited to be working with Nike and look forward to building upon our partnership.”

Everton’s official retail partner Kitbag are also delighted with the response to this season’s kit and the move to new manufacturer Nike, after three seasons with previous brand, French sports firm, Le Coq Sportif.

A Kitbag spokesperson, said: “This season’s kits look great and reflect a positive move forward for the club, which I am sure supporters will appreciate.”