GVS America (GVS), owners of the heritage skate brand, World Industries, re-launched its skate team with former World Pro, Anthony Shetler.
GVS acquired World Industries in August 2014.
Originally turning pro for the brand in 2009, Shetler has had a long history and countless signature products with World over the years. As the first pro since the acquisition of the brand by GVS, Shetler will lead the brand in solidifying their commitment to build the business back.
World Industries is a global, authentic action sports lifestyle brand targeting 14 to 24-year-olds. Its premium product range includes skate, snow and watersports hardgoods, apparel, accessories and footwear.
“GVS America is excited to have Shetler back on the team. He’s had a long history with the brand and it’s previous owners and seemed like a great fit to help us re-launch. We’re happy to be aligned with all that Shetler has going on and hope to be able to work with him on some of his projects.” said Ritchie Kruger, vice president of GVS America. “This comes right as we introduce our first line of footwear back into the market since our acquisition. The timing couldn’t be more perfect.”
“World Industries and I have had some great history together over the years and I’m excited to be back with the iconic brand. It was the brand that I turned pro for and got my first of 3 pro shoes with,” says Shetler. “To me the decision to come back was a no-brainer. And I’m looking forward to working with the new ownership group, GVS.”
GVS America (GVS) is headquartered in Kent, WA. In its role as a sporting goods distribution and marketing company, GVS is driven by innovation and a passion for sport. GVS’ distribution in the U.S. market encompasses 10 brands that together span five categories, which include World Industries, Flameboy vs. Wet Willy, Diadora soccer and M3 outerwear and snowboards.
Anthony Shetler is a New England native that picked up his first skateboard at the age of 12 and was immediately hooked– Not only to the physical act but to the community and lifestyle surrounding the Action Sport. Shetler has ridden for notable companies such as, legendary New York brand, 5Boro, Tony Hawk’s Birdhouse, Marc Ecko’s Zoo York and World Industries. Shetler now owns his own board company, All I Need Skateboards, Directs and Produces a weekly podcast, The Shetler Show, distributed on Apple’s iTunes music store, and is the founder and creator of the New England Am skateboard contest. He is currently in the filming stages of a reality video project chronicling his life’s adventures, set for digital release via YouTube soon.
