Gramicci named BIGroup, based in Montreal, as its first Canadian distributor. BIGroup also represents Compass North, Maui, Persona, and Redsand. BIGroup serves over 1,300 retail accounts across Canada.

“Canada represents a tremendous growth opportunity for Gramicci,” said Marty Weening, president of Gramicci. “Our new direction and expanded line presents a fresh choice for consumers in Canada looking for something different. We couldn’t be in better hands with BIGroup, a company that knows this industry and has a proven track record with the independently owned sports and specialty shops that are so important to Gramicci in Canada. BIGroup has solid relationships in the competitive sports apparel category that will help Gramicci become a brand of choice.”

“Gramicci’s new management team has taken the right steps to nurture this soul brand,” said Sonny Svarc, president and CEO of BIGroup. “We know that Gramicci will do well here. We’ve already seen the momentum in the U.S. with fall ’06 line selling out and old and new retailers alike writing orders. Canada presents numerous opportunities for a brand like Gramicci and we intend to make Gramicci in Canada, what it is in the U.S.”