As part of Gramicci’s global brand expansion, it announced today that Sport Alliance International S.p.A., based in Bolzano, Italy, will be its Italian distributor. Sport Alliance International S.p.A. presently represents brands including Columbia, Nike, Nordica, and Vuarnet, among others. It has 55 partner companies and serves more than 215 outlets from all over Italy.

“International distribution is an important part of our growth plans. We sought out and found what we sincerely believe is the best representation in Italy – a group that is experienced and entrenched in the outdoor lifestyle market,” said Marty Weening, president of Gramicci. “The Sport Alliance International S.p.A. team has a real appreciation of Gramicci heritage and a keen understanding of where we are now taking the brand.”

“We chose to work with Gramicci because this respected U.S. outdoor brand has the potential to do well here,” said Fabio Pelosi, president of Sport Alliance International S.p.A. “Their momentum in the U.S. is impressive. Gramicci’s new direction and expanded line is exactly what Italian consumers are looking for in a fresh approach to outdoor apparel that is technical, comfortable and fashionable.”