6 minute read
Enjoy 'Peak' Sales with Transcontinenta UK
Last time we met the familiar faces heading up the brand new UK arm of Netherlands-based tech distributor Transcontinenta. Now, in advance of its showcase at The Photography Show, we focus on one of its leading product lines from Peak Design
Merely months old, the UK office of Netherlands-based distributor Transcontinenta is fast picking up traction – and, with it, big name brands to distribute to the photo trade. At the end of 2019 we learnt it had already deals in place to distribute Tamron lenses, Boya microphones, Angelbird SD storage, Hyber USB hubs, Zhiyun gimbals and stabilisers for smartphones and cameras of all varieties, alongside the Transcontinenta-owned Cullman tripods, bags and flashgun brand.
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Now a new name can be added to that list in Peak Design, USbased manufacturer of camera bags, everyday travel bags and accessories, including a brand new travel tripod. From February 1st, it has switched to Transcontinenta UK as its official distributor for the UK and Ireland.
“We are looking forward to representing the Peak Design brand and supporting growth within your business,” says Transcontinenta UK’s Interim Managing Director Simon Coleman, adding that he is able to immediately supply the trade with stock of the items we’re highlighting here.
For those not already in the know, Peak Design originated in San Francisco in 2011, has 34 full time employees and over 100 products to offer the trade. While the usability of its products is very important, so too is their sustainability. Most bags made over the past two years feature 100% recycled nylon and polyester shells, while it is also sourcing suppliers of recycled aluminium. It further claims to offset all the carbon it emits (and has ever emitted), as of 2018 declaring itself fully carbon neutral.
Small revolution: Peak Design’s compact Travel Tripod folds down to a width comparable to a bottle of water
BAGS OF IDEAS TO MAKE A SALE
For this feature, we’re focusing on just a few Peak Design ‘hero’ products you will want to order in from Transcontinenta UK, for starters.
Take Peak Design’s Everyday Backpack. There are two options here – the regular Everyday Backpack, adaptable to accommodate ever-changing gear – plus a second version in the Everyday Backpack Zip, which is described as simpler, both in terms of its look and its functionality.
The Everyday Backpack is built around access, organisation, expansion and protection, is available in a choice of colours – Black, Ash, Charcoal or Midnight (blue) – and in either 20L or 30L sizes. ‘MagLatch’ hardware provides internal expansion of up to 3L on the 20L bag, or 8L on the 30L variety. The 20L version can fit up to a 15-inch laptop thanks to an adjustable height laptop sleeve, with side pockets accommodating water bottles and tripods. The packs are customisable too, via three easy to configure ‘FlexiFold’ internal dividers, as well as being durable and weatherproof. Comfort and flexibility is bestowed via vented and quick drying mesh back padding, while shoulder straps pivot at axial points to maximise comfort with all body types. We also get a quick connecting, stow-able sternum strap and three padded grab handles for upright or briefcase style hand carry.
We are family: Shown below is the entire line up of 20L and 30L Everyday Backpacks
The simplified ‘Zip’ version features a wrap-around zipper, yet fewer internal dividers to stow photo gear, no internal expansion options and a smaller external carry capacity. Available in 15L or 20L options, the ‘Zip’ can stow a 13-inch laptop, while the larger size can accommodate a 15-inch laptop. We still get external side pockets for water bottles and tripods and exterior weather proofing however, as well as the same breathable mesh materials and carry straps for added comfort. The 15L pack’s external dimensions are 44.5x26.5x20cm, while internal dimensions are 42x23x16cm. By contrast, for the 20L variety it’s 48x31.5x23.5cm externally, while it’s 45x28.5x20cm internally.
‘TOTES’ AMAZING
A sleeker even more affordable alternative to the above comes in the shape of Peak Design’s Everyday Totepack (top picture). Utilising 100% recycled material, this is one for those photographers who want something with the clean look of a tote bag yet the carry anywhere convenience of a backpack. The available size here is 20L, in black or bone colour, with again a padded laptop sleeve that can hold up to 15-inch devices, while the pack’s roll-top design is said to allow for 5L of internal expansion (i.e a maximum 25L capacity). Dual side access and dedicated backpack style carry straps are provided, plus there’s a degree of internal customisation possible thanks to two FlexiFold dividers. External dimensions are 49x39.5x16cm, while internally it measures 41.9x33x8.9cm.
Peak Design doesn’t just offer innovative bags for those on the move however – it also offers innovative tools to aid photographers via its Travel Tripod and very clever Capture clip (right). Brand new to the range, the former is described by its manufacturer as offering ‘revolutionary compactness’, thanks to removing the ‘negative space’ inherent with traditional tripods. In fact, it is said to pack down to the diameter of a water bottle. On top of this, it’s said to be lightning fast to set up and take down, offers pro level stability, plus an integrated ergonomic ball head. Various accessories including spiked feet, camera plate, carry bag and a mount for a phone are available as optional extras.
Lastly for now, Peak Design’s Capture clip options are provided for photographers to mount their cameras on the straps of their backpacks, for example, facilitating easy access via a quick release button whenever and wherever they need to quickly take a photograph.
The standard ‘Capture’ set, which also includes a standard plate that works with most Arca-type tripods, connects to any strap up to 6.4cm wide and 2.2cm thick, with a security lock preventing accidental release. The all metal parts, comprising an aluminium alloy chassis, backplate, quick release button and stainless steel locking pin, are said to be weatherproof and resistant to rust and saltwater.
It’s also possible to buy the Capture clip on its own without a standard plate if so desired – for example if photographers want to add a second clip to their set up.
Get in touch with your local Transcontinenta UK contact NOW for any Peak Design product enquiries, or contact head office direct via sales@transcontinenta.co.uk or call 0203 9665947. You’ll also have a chance to get hands on with the packs for yourself at The Photography Show this March, where the distributor has a prominent position (Stand D111) just by the main aisle through the centre of Hall 5.
As we noted in our Dec/Jan issue feature though, you don’t have to wait until ‘TPS’ to find out more about its product offerings or place an order direct, as Transcontinenta UK has set up an online Trade Shop to allow your business and your staff to do both; simply head to the URL below for more!
www.transcontinenta.co.uk www.peakdesign.com
