BikeBiz Bicycle and cycling retail news
Bucher + Walt SA, the Swiss Dakine distributor for over 30 years, has acquired the Dakine Europe operations headquartered in Annecy, France.
It has been named the regional distribution partner for Dakine Equipment across the key European markets of France, Germany, Benelux, Austria, Spain, Andorra, Switzerland, United Kingdom, Ireland and Italy.
Under the new distribution agreement, the Dakine Europe office in Annecy, France will continue driving the sales management and operational efforts in the region, while Bucher + Walt’s offices in Neuchâtel, Switzerland will oversee the management of the expanded strategic relationship.
Global and regional brand direction, marketing and direct to consumer strategy will continue to be led by Marquee Brands. Global product creation, innovation, sales leadership and manufacturing will continue to be driven by the Dakine Equipment team in Hood River, Oregon, USA.
“For more than 50 years, we have never ceased to reinvent ourselves and innovate within our company. The acquisition of Dakine Europe enables our company to evolve while expanding our range of services as well as our marketplace,” said Julien Bucher, CEO of Bucher + Walt SA. “We are proud to rise to this new challenge and our teams are ready for it.”
Jonathan Hirshberg, president and CEO of Dakine Equipment, added: “We are super excited to expand and strengthen our partnership with Julien and his entire team at Bucher + Walt.
“We are confident we have selected the right partner to grow the brand’s presence in the European market to the next level, while continuing our commitment to Dakine’s core consumers by delivering innovative products on the mountain and in the water.”
