Rudy Project, the Italy-based designer and manufacturer of performance sports helmets and eyewear, has acquired ownership of Rudy Project North America L.P., its long-standing and exclusive distributor, and will now operate directly in the U.S. market. This strategic operation also includes the Caribbean region.
“Founded in 1998 and based in San Clemente, CA, Rudy Project North America was established by a group of executives from the optical and sports industries, who believed in the brand’s potential from its earliest stages of development in the North American market. Over the years, Rudy Project North America has contributed significantly to building a strong brand presence and consolidating the premium positioning of the Rudy Project brand,” the company said in a media statement.
“After consolidating direct control over our key European markets, the natural evolution of our business was integrating the most strategic overseas market,” commented Cristiano Barbazza, CEO of Rudy Project. “The United States is one of the most relevant, dynamic, and at the same time most competitive sports markets in the world — a context that demands speed, vision, and the ability to innovate continuously. For this reason, we have developed an ambitious multi-year investment plan designed to structurally support growth and further strengthen our presence in the U.S. market.”
Brad Shapiro, principal and co-founder, Rudy Project North America, stated, “After running Rudy Project North America as an independent company for 25 years, this was the right time to reunite with Rudy Project S.p.A., the parent company, which has the long-term vision and resources necessary to maintain the brand’s quality standards and drive continued growth across North America.”
Rudy Project operates in over 60 countries worldwide and directly manages the business in Italy, France (optics and outdoor industry), Belgium, Germany, Switzerland, Austria, and now the United States.
Founded in 1985, Rudy Project develops its products in collaboration with professional athletes, leveraging an approach that combines Italian design, technological research and material innovation. The brand operates in the premium segment, targeting performance athletes while also focusing on cycling, triathlon, running, and outdoor disciplines.
Image courtesy Rudy Project North America
