Level said it is now working directly with a U.S. rep to service U.S. dealers in an arrangement that will provide retail margins of up to 60 percent on its premium gloves.
“The current trend of specialty retailers selling fewer products and making less money is not sustainable,” said Level owner Davide Compagnoni. “It’s also not feasible for these retailers to compete against big box stores by selling the same brands. At Level, we see an opportunity to make our specialty retail partners more money by offering premium products with premium margins.”
Level is collaborating with Sales Guys of Steamboat Springs, CO to implement this new business model. This partnership allows Level to offer retailers “a direct relationship with the brand, excellent customer service, and strong marketing and point of purchase efforts to support great sell-thru and maintain margins,” explains Sales Guys founder Marty Carrigan.
It also enables Level to expand its reach into the American market. For years, Level has been a leader of the premium glove market in Europe, offering collections designed to meet the needs of snowboarders and skiers-be they men or women, freestylers, freeriders, or World Cup racers.
In Europe, Level has competed on craftsmanship and technology by offering gloves with sophisticated features like heat-moldable materials that offer a customizable fit, Biomex wrist protection, Kirax liners that enhance reflexes, and an air wrist support system that can be turned on or off. The company also uses component brands such as Gore-Tex, Polartec, Primaloft, wool as well as fine leather. In addition to gloves, the company offers ski poles, packs, travel bags, and headwear.
