With the goal of streamlining its sales team, Thule has consolidated its sales representation in multiple channels to single representative groups in the Rockies, Midwest, and Southeast. Historically, Thule has had multiple sales representative groups for independent bicycle dealers (IBD), ski, outdoor/paddle, and automotive channels.

“With the growth of the brand and changes within the marketplace, the move to single rep groups covering multiple segments is the best sales strategy to support continued growth for Thule in the US,” said Fred Clark, Thule Inc. President.

“This change will reduce Thule’s considerable overlap of sales efforts and better position the company for the future,” said Tripp Wyckoff, Thule Inc. VP Sales. “With the new structure we will be able to provide more consistent service and representation across all of Thule’s distribution channels.”

As a result of the realignment, Thule has hired Kahl & Partners and O’Brien & Associates for the Rockies and Midwest territories respectively, and has expanded the sales responsibilities in the Southeast for the existing Thule sales group Flamand Sports. The territory and sales representative changes will be effective July 1, 2005.

As long time reps of Yakima racks, Kahl & Partners offers experience, the highest levels of dealer service and proven sales to Thule.

When asked about the change, Doug Kahl, President of Kahl & Partners said “This was one of the toughest decisions I have had to make in my career. We had been with Yakima for 16 years and had forged a strong relationship
with them. Our agency spent a lot of time looking at this from every angle before making any decisions and it came down to the fact that Thule has a very clear and focused vision about what they are and what they want to do. We truly believe in the opportunities that Thule offers our customers and our agency.”

Kahl & Partners will spend the month of July meeting with their customers regarding the changes and getting to know the people of Thule and the systems they use. Doug and his team will attend all the major trade shows this fall including Outdoor Retailer, InterBike and SEMA.