With immediate effect Link Brand Solutions has been appointed distributors for market leading golf bag brand, OGIO.
Link, based in Chesterfield is a brand management company which currently manufactures and distribute under license for companies such as England FA and Ben Sherman. OGIO is the first brand in a new sports division within the company. The division will be headed by Marcus Illingworth, former managing director of specialist golf company USP Brands which went into administration in June
“This is an important step in the future of OGIO in the UK market. Launched 7 years ago the brand has continued to see fantastic demand, with sales up 50% already in 2006. This change of distribution will help strengthen the brand’s position” commented Marcus. “OGIO, responsible for this year’s introduction of the revolutionary ‘Shling’ carrying system has found the opportunity to take the next step forward by joining forces with Link to enable sales to continue growing.”
“We are delighted to have been chosen to represent OGIO in the UK and Eire, France, Italy and the Benelux,” commented Ivan Taggart Link’s managing director. “OGIO’s strength in design and innovation has established the brand as a market leader and with their US background and Link’s infrastructure we can make this partnership fly! We aim to become an important player in the golf industry and using the 23 years of experience Marcus has in the trade, we plan to add other brands to the portfolio in the near future. With an exciting 2007 product range around the corner and more great developments in design and use of colourways, Ogio are ready to put a new spring in their step!”
Paul Buckels has also joined Link Sports from USP brands and brings with him 17 years of golfing experience to the team. His role will be as Operations Manager.
Marcus Illingworth and Paul Buckels can be contacted on 01246 450002.
The licensing arrangements for other brands previously distributed by USP Brands have been taken over by Outlook Sports and Glenbrae Golf.
Outlook Sports, the parent company for the Lynx, Hippo and Howson brands, has taken on Progen and Fazer whilst Glenbrae has taken control of the Sunice Golf performance outerwear brand after signing a deal with the Canadian based Fletcher Leisure Group.
A new UK carrier for OGIO bags
