Member Article

Accapi Group top dog with £5 million dogwear distribution deal

The Accapi Group is shaping up to become leader of the pack as it has landed an exclusive European distribution deal with American dogwear firm Ruffwear.

County Durham-based Accapi will distribute the products across 21 countries in Europe, expanding on its current sales to the UK, France and Lithuania.

The £5 million deal will see Accapi recruit new staff including a native German, Frauke Gamblin, as head of international customer service.

Ten new staff have already been employed at the firm’s head office at Tanfield Lea Business Centre and a further ten will be recruited over the course of the year.

Accapi was launched in 2009 by serial entrepreneur and climbing fanatic George Heydon, and current CEO and former Barbour and Berghaus man, Andrew Geere, has increased turnover from £20k to £500k in three years.

The firm also holds the exclusive distribution rights in Europe for other premium dog brands including Kurgo the award-winning dog travel brand; Planet Dog; producers of a range of eco-friendly, dog durable toys and Doog; makers of innovative walkie belts.

Andrew Geere said: “We are delighted to extend our partnership with Ruffwear into Europe following 3 ½ years of successful growth in the UK, France and Lithuania. The strategy to have one principal distribution partner in Europe will enable supply chain improvements and cost reduction to benefit our retailers.

“This, combined with an exciting range of new products, commencing SS14 and major investment in European infrastructure and marketing activity by Accapi and Ruffwear, will make the world’s leading adventure dog brand much more accessible to the consumer in every market.”

Ruffwear director of Sales, Dove Gibson, added: “We’re excited to take the successful partnership between Ruffwear and Accapi to a new level. Accapi has excelled with Ruffwear Performance Dog Gear throughout the UK and we’re looking forward to partnering with them in Europe.

“They’ve assembled a terrific team that is committed to delivering great service to Ruffwear Retailers. We will be enthusiastically working together to expand Ruffwear product availability in key European markets.”

George added: “Throughout my career I have always worked with top brands and established products, taking them to the next stage in their development.

“Ruffwear is a category inventor and leader of outdoor adventure accessories for dogs; they are by far the best in class which is why we have chosen to work with them to build their brand across the UK and Europe.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Tom Keighley .