State College, PA: May 12, 2026 – Rally House, the leading retailer in licensed collegiate and professional sports apparel, gifts, and merchandise in Pennsylvania, is proud to announce the acquisition of Lion & Cub, a beloved Penn State retail store located in downtown State College, along with its online business, Nittany Outlet. The store, situated directly across the street from the Pennsylvania State University campus, has served loyal Penn State fans since 1975 and will continue operations as Rally House State College
For nearly 50 years, Lion & Cub and Nittany Outlet have been trusted destinations for Penn State clothing, collectibles, gifts, and memorabilia. The business has built a strong reputation among Penn State football fans, students, athletes, faculty, staff, and the thousands of passionate Penn State alumni across the country.
The acquisition comes as the current owner prepares for retirement after decades of serving the Penn State community both in-store through Lion & Cub and online through Nittany Outlet. In selecting Rally House, the owner 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.
Rather than closing the business, this transition ensures the continued operation of both the retail store and online business while giving fans ongoing access to the Penn State merchandise they have trusted for generations. 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.
“Serving Penn State fans for nearly 50 years has been an incredible journey. 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,” said Benson Lichtig, Owner of Lion & Cub. “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 continues to expand its presence in key collegiate markets by investing in communities with passionate fan bases and strong local traditions. The transition to Rally House Lion & Cub reflects the company’s commitment to preserving beloved local sports retailers while enhancing the customer experience with an expanded assortment of officially licensed collegiate apparel, gifts, home décor, and locally inspired merchandise. In addition to this new State College location, Rally House is excited to open a second location on North Atherton St later this fall.
“We’re honored that the owner entrusted Rally House to continue the legacy of Lion & Cub and Nittany Outlet,” said Aaron Liebert, Owner and CEO of Rally House. “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.”
Customers can continue shopping for the latest Penn State apparel, accessories, collectibles, and local merchandise at Rally House State College and through the business’ online operations as this exciting new chapter begins in early June.
About Rally House
Rally House is a family-owned retail company, offering a wide selection of apparel, hats, gifts, and home décor representing local NCAA, NFL, MLB, NBA, NHL, MLS, and MiLB teams, along with locally inspired apparel, gifts, and food items. Rally House operates more than 310 locations across 28 states and is excited to open its first location in State College and 43rd in Pennsylvania.
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