SealSkinz Ltd., a U.K.-based manufacturer specializing in fully waterproof, windproof and breathable hand, foot and head accessories, has launched a North American subsidiary, SealSkinz Inc., to bring their line of waterproof, windproof and breathable gloves, socks and hats to the U.S. market. The line will include their waterproof breathable socks and Ultra Grip gloves, which are manufactured by hand in King’s Lynn, U.K.
Previously, a limited selection of SealSkinz branded products was manufactured and sold by a third party in the United States under license. In January 2013, Sealskinz Ltd re-acquired the rights to its brand in the U.S. The company is now importing a broad range of accessories, manufactured directly by SealSkinz, that meet the brand's standards.
“We have recently kicked off a plan to accelerate our international growth,” said Justin Adams, president and CEO of SealSkinz. “In Europe and the U.K., SealSkinz products are extremely well regarded for their waterproof/breathable performance by outdoor enthusiasts, professional athletes and a broad range of service personnel, including special forces, emergency, and law enforcement. These customers depend on our products to work flawlessly day in and day out and enable them to get outdoors and stay out whatever the weather. We have dedicated ourselves to do this aim and the business has been rewarded with consistent double digit growth. This has given us a very strong platform for further development. Given the importance of the U.S. market, we felt the time was therefore perfect to take the rights to our brand back and establish our own operations to service American customers with our own range.”
Shawn Pritchett, director of sales and operations for SealSkinz Inc., said: “I am very excited to be working with the brand. In its home market its products frequently hold as many as 5 of the top 10 best selling spots among their category with leading retailers. With our ambitious U.S. expansion, SealSkinz is dedicated to building on its international success and offer unique and patented product function, style, and value to the US consumer. SealSkinz, Inc. newly established US operations include domestic based shipping, management, exceptional customer service, and independent territory representation”.
SealSkinz products are available beginning from July 2013 and will be on display at upcoming industry trade shows. Retailers interested in carrying the line should contact Shawn Pritchett, US Director of Sales and Operations at shawnpritchett@sealskinz.com.
