Buzz Off Insect Shield is implementing a new strategic business initiative focusing on private label manufacturing. Rick Hemmerling, former president of ExOfficio outdoor and travel apparel, has signed on to help assemble and lead the Seattle-based team.
Under Hemmerlings direction, the new group will pursue private label opportunities, develop a new overseas treatment facility, and support Buzz Offs philanthropic efforts. The team will also support existing Buzz Off partner brands (such as ExOfficio, L.L. Bean, Orvis, Rocky Outdoor Gear, Oxford Golf and Imperial Headware) through the development of a comprehensive Buzz Off marketing strategy.
“By pursuing private label development, this new initiative will help generate increased awareness and consumer understanding of the Buzz Off technology, while complementing the efforts of our existing partner brands,” said Haynes Griffin, Buzz Off Chairman and CEO.
“Rick Hemmerling is a widely recognized pioneer in performance apparel,” added Richard Lane, Buzz Off president. “He has extensive experience that will help Buzz Off realize its goal of revolutionizing personal insect protection.”
The Buzz Off technology stems from the founders original goal of developing a convenient and effective method of protection from insects, including those that can carry diseases such as West Nile virus, malaria and Lyme disease. Thousands of garments have been donated by Buzz Off to international relief efforts.
“Ever since my introduction to Buzz Off through ExOfficio, I have felt it was one of the most important developments in performance apparel in the last 25 years,” said Hemmerling. “I look forward to evolving this revolutionary technology into other private label products, supporting our partner brands, and furthering Buzz Offs philanthropic efforts to help protect people from insect-borne diseases wherever the need is greatest.”
Buzz Off also announced three new members of Hemmerlings team: Bob Carroll/finance; Nancy Hom/product development; and Mary Collins/sales and marketing. All three have extensive apparel industry experience.
