Tom Sims has inked a new licensing agreement with Itochu International, the North American subsidiary of ITOCHU Corporation, one of Japan’s leading companies. Itochu now has the exclusive worldwide distribution rights of Sims Snowboards, including all snowboard, boots, bindings, and outerwear products.

Itochu has a long history in the textile and apparel business, but is a relative newcomer to hardgoods. The Japanese parent company is a Global Fortune 500 company that is publicly traded on the Tokyo Stock Exchange. Fiscal 2004 revenues for Itochu were ¥9.5 trillion ($84.27 billion).

According to the company website, Itochu International’s core competency focuses on Brand Management and Marketing. The company has negotiated licensing distribution agreements with J. Crew, Tumi luggage, Tommy Hilfiger, Nautica, and Converse. In November the company also added the Japanese distribution rights for Head ski, snowboard, and golf apparel to its portfolio.

Sims’ product, sales, marketing, and customer service will remain in Canada. Mark Brasier and Gareth Knocker will lead the sales force. Michael Tadgell, GM of Sims Snowboards will head up the Toronto group and Apparatus Inc. will take care of the product, marketing, and creative design. ITOCHU International has stated that Sims will continue to provide high-presence marketing, award winning product, and core/specialty dealer distribution.

“We are pleased that this agreement has allowed us to retain most of our sales team and we are confident that with ITOCHU as a partner, Sims Snowboards will continue to play an important role in our dealers’ snowboard programs,” said Mark Brasier, Sims Sales Manager.