Johnston & Murphy Appoints Peyton Manning as Brand Ambassador

10/01/2025 – 06:50 AM

The American legacy brand announces partnership with the NFL champion with an engaging campaign on style

NASHVILLE, Tenn. – Johnston & Murphy, the American premium lifestyle brand, is betting on star power to bolster its market presence, announcing a partnership with NFL legend Peyton Manning as its new brand ambassador. The move, which coincides with the unveiling of the brand’s Fall 2025 campaign, signifies a strategic alignment with Manning’s well-regarded image of quality, achievement, and accessible style. This collaboration arrives as Johnston & Murphy aims to not only solidify its existing customer base but also attract a new generation of consumers increasingly influenced by athlete endorsements.

<p style="font-size:85%Johnston & Murphy Names Peyton Manning As Brand Ambassador

Manning, known for his on-field prowess and his post-retirement role as a popular commentator on the “ManningCast,” will now represent the Tennessee-based brand in its latest advertising efforts. A self-professed long-time fan of Johnston & Murphy, Manning showcases the brand’s Fall collection, employing a humorous approach to his previous fashion choices juxtaposed against the brand’s contemporary offerings.

“We are honored to announce Peyton Manning as our brand ambassador,” said Danny Ewoldsen, President of Johnston & Murphy. “Peyton has worn Johnston & Murphy for many years and this partnership is a nod to our shared values of authenticity, quality and confidence. We admire Peyton’s ability to always perform at the highest level and believe he is someone who will inspire our customers.”

The campaign, developed in collaboration with creative agency Wolfgang and Omaha Productions, uses humor to resonate with consumers. Two narrative threads drive the campaign: “Fashion Fumbles,” where Manning playfully critiques past fashion missteps (now rectified by Johnston & Murphy) and “Wall of Game”, where Johnston & Murphy’s footwear and apparel are presented as Hall of Fame-worthy artifacts.

“I’m very excited to officially partner with Johnston & Murphy,” said Peyton Manning. “J&M combines comfort and practicality with timeless and approachable looks, which is a seamless fit for my day-to-day style. Teaming up with them really feels like a perfect match.”

The Fall 2025 collection features a variety of classic and contemporary styles, including dress shoes, casual footwear, performance blazers, quarter zips, and outerwear. Manning’s personal favorites are highlighted throughout the campaign, aiming to bridge the gap between aspirational style and everyday wearability.

This ambassador announcement also coincides with Johnston & Murphy celebrating its 175th anniversary this year. The brand is actively investing in product innovation and retail expansion. Notably, the launch of the XC+™ Extreme Comfort collection, featuring proprietary comfort technology and waterproof construction. The Manning campaign will be rolled out across Johnston & Murphy’s network of 127 retail and factory outlets, as well as 25 airport locations. The media strategy includes cable TV (including ESPN), digital and connected TV advertising, Meta, and YouTube. The campaign is currently live on johnstonmurphy.com, instore, and on the brand’s social media platforms.

ABOUT JOHNSTON & MURPHY

A division of Nashville-based Genesco Inc. (NYSE: GCO), Johnston & Murphy represents a legacy of American craftsmanship. With roots dating back to 1850, the brand has continually adapted classic styles for the modern consumer. Johnston & Murphy products are available in over 2,000 locations globally and on johnstonmurphy.com. The alignment with a figure like Peyton Manning indicates a keen awareness of evolving consumer preferences and the power of strategic partnerships in the competitive retail landscape.