TEKO, the eco-friendly sock manufacturer, said outdoor industry veteran Chip Coe has joined the company as CEO and stockholder. Coe served as COO and president of SmartWool Corporation for seven years, before retiring from that company in late 2006.
“I am very proud to be able to announce Chip joining TEKO both as the CEO and as an investor,” said Gordon Fraser, TEKOs Chairman and majority stockholder. “It is fantastic to have such an experienced and passionate individual to lead the company in an industry that we love so much. Chip clearly identifies with the tremendous value and innovation that TEKO brings to the market as a sustainable and highly technical sock brand.”
During Coes tenure at SmartWool, company revenues more than quadrupled, and the company expanded its sales footprint to include over 25 foreign countries.
While at SmartWool, Coe was directly responsible for establishing many industry-first programs, including the SmartWool New Zealand Merino partnership, a revolutionary partnership between SmartWool and over seventy New Zealand merino wool farmers. The SmartWool/NZM partnership pioneered the use of multi-year supply contracts to promote sustainable, eco-friendly wool growing practices throughout New Zealand.
“Joining TEKO allows me to get back to the entrepreneurial environment that I love, while also pursuing my passion for sustainable business,” said Coe. “With its commitment to producing the best socks on the planet and the best socks for the planet, TEKO is uniquely positioned to address the wants and desires of todays outdoor enthusiast, and to serve those retailers who are focused on providing their customers with thoughtful, high performance products.”
