Alliance Graphics, a Berkeley-based screen printing and embroidery shop, has been an integral part of the Oakland Athletics’ operations for nearly three decades. The company, owned by Howard Levine, has been responsible for producing all staff uniforms for the baseball team, including those worn by ticket takers, ushers, guest services personnel, and security guards.
Levine, a dedicated A’s fan since 1984, recalls the serendipitous moment when his business first connected with the team. “It was pure chance,” he explains. “The A’s previous supplier couldn’t meet a deadline, so some guest services staff came to us for help. We jumped at the opportunity because of our love for the team, and from there, our partnership grew steadily over the years.”
The scope of Alliance Graphics’ work for the A’s expanded
significantly, encompassing uniforms for various departments such as parking attendants, broadcast team members, and even Stomper’s crew. Levine estimates that at its peak, the contract was worth hundreds of thousands of dollars annually for his company.
However, with the A’s impending move to Sacramento, Levine anticipates the loss of this substantial account. While he hasn’t received official confirmation, he’s almost certain that the team will seek a local Sacramento vendor for their uniform needs. This shift will not only impact Alliance Graphics but also affect their clothing supplier in Fresno.
The potential loss of the A’s contract goes beyond just business for Levine. As a longtime season ticket holder, he shares a deep emotional connection with the team. “Losing the A’s is heartbreaking for many fans, myself included,” he says. “It’s not just about the business aspect; we’re losing something that’s been a significant part of our lives.”
Levine’s passion for his work with the A’s is evident in his habit of photographing staff members wearing the uniforms his company produced. “Every time I went to a game, I’d take pictures of people wearing our stuff. It was a source of pride to see our work in action,” he reminisces.
The impact of the A’s departure extends beyond just Alliance Graphics. Levine points out that numerous local businesses that have
long-standing relationships with the team will be affected. “You can’t remove something as important to the community as the A’s without expecting repercussions,” he states.
As a memento of his company’s long association with the team, Levine is considering creating a quilt featuring one of every design they’ve ever made for the A’s. He still keeps a box of files containing all the designs, unable to part with this piece of A’s history.
The loss of the A’s contract is particularly poignant for Levine, who cherished the nights spent at the ballpark with his disabled son. While most spectators focused on the players, Levine took pride in observing the staff wearing the uniforms his company had created.
As the A’s prepare to leave Oakland, businesses like Alliance Graphics serve as a reminder of the deep-rooted connections between the team and the local community. The end of this era marks not just the loss of a sports franchise, but the unraveling of a complex network of relationships and economic ties that have been built over decades.