Gregory's new owner confirms its independence
Luggage group Samsonite has said it intends to leave manufacturer Gregory Mountain Products to operate as an independent brand, after buying the backpack maker in July.
“Gregory will stick to that strategy of high quality, comfort and fit under the Samsonite umbrella,” said Fabio Rugarli, president of Samsonite Europe. “Gregory will stay an independent brand and will continue to focus on technical backpacks of highest quality within its core business, the outdoor industry.”
Andrea Meerholz will continue as drand director, Europe, and will work out of Samsonite’s Swiss office in Dietikon and will grow the team there.
Gregory’s European sales structure will also be kept. “We want to assure the trade that Gregory will stay part of the European outdoor industry and their contacts continue to be those outdoor experts they are familiar with,” she said.
“Samsonite has a very strong administration and logistic platforms, as well as huge warehouse facilities in Belgium – this will add to our performance on shipments.”
Samsonite’s marketing team in Belgium is expected to support the brand activities and strengthen the image in Europe.
“In Europe, we will benefit from a European-minded product approach and Samsonite’s close to market strategy,” added Ms Meerholz.
