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North Devon Becomes 12th World Surfing Reserve
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North Devon has become the 12th location from around the globe to be selected as a World Surfing Reserve, an international designation that recognises and celebrates the area’s outstanding quality surfing beaches and brings together the local community and experts in actions to protect them.
The area has been recognised not only for its high quality and diversity of surf breaks, but also for the unique natural beauty of its surroundings, its deep-rooted and historic surf culture, and its importance to the wider community.
North Devon joins an exclusive list of World Surfing Reserves that includes Malibu and Santa Cruz in California, Ericeira in Portugal, the Gold Coast, Manly and Noosa in Australia, Punta de Lobos in Chile, Huanchaco in Peru, Guarda do Embau in Brazil, and Bahia de Todos Santos in Mexico.
Mike West Elected Chairman of the Board at Snowsports Industries America
Snowsports Industries America (SIA) has welcomed 4 new members and a new Chairman, 686’s Mike West, to their Board. The new appointees will aid SIA in the continuation of industry innovation to poise the snow industry in the best possible position to support and encourage future generations.
F51, Folkestone’s 3-Storey Skatepark & Climbing Centre England
Folkstone’s brand new multi-storey, £17m skatepark, F51, opened its doors to the public in April. 3 skate disciplines – Park, Bowl and Flow – each have their own dedicated floor; from beginners to pros, there’s space for everyone to develop and progress.
American Company Vail Resorts Acquires 55% Stake in Andermatt-Sedrun Sport AG
American mountain resorts company Vail Resorts has acquired 55% majority stake in Andermatt-Sedrun Sport AG, Switzerland’s luxury resort and hotel complex; an investment totalling CHF 149 million.
The USA’s Outdoor Retailer tradeshow is moving back to Salt Lake City in Utah for 2023 and beyond. So far, the show’s pencilled in for January and June 2023, with the exact dates yet to be announced.
VOITED’s UK PR & Communications to be Handled by Lephyr
Lephyr have been appointed to develop eco-conscious outdoor lifestyle brand VOITED‘s UK PR & communication strategies. This will include developing VOITED’s influencer strategy, brand awareness and storytelling.
Vans Appoints New Global Brand President VF Corp have appointed Kevin Bailey as the new Vans Global Brand President. The move sees former Global President, Doug Palladini depart the company after 18 years at the business. Bailey most recently
served as VF’s President of Asia-Pacific Region and Emerging Brands.
Racoon Events Partners With Snowsports Industries America to Create Snowbound Expo
Racoon Events are taking their successful snow expo running skills across the Atlantic. In collaboration with Snowsports Industries America, Racoon are transforming the existing Snowbound Fest into Snowbound Expo which will take place in Massachusetts, 2022.
The Dainese Group, owners of sportwear and protective gear brand Dainese, has entered a new investment partnership with global investment firm Carlyle. As a result, ownership of the Group and its brands will transfer to Carlyle, who now hold majority shares.
Pri Shumate Appointed Chief Marketing Officer of Columbia Sportwear Company
From March 14, Pri Shumate will assume the position of Chief Marketing Officer at Columbia Sportwear Company. The former World Surf League CMO moves to this role from her current position as Head of Marketing Experiences & Olympics at Airbnb.
Surf Brand Gotcha Makes Grand Return to Europe for 2022
Surf brand Gotcha has risen from the ashes and will be available in Europe again from this spring. The brainchild of legendary surfer Michael Tomson – RIP – Gotcha will be available in Europe through Estar (2018) Ltd (apparel) and New Day Fury Ltd (hardgoods, also in The Middle East) via Nuno Fonseca, formerly of Maui & Sons.
Moving on from his 10-year stint at Patagonia, Josh Nielsen has been appointed as the new Marketing Director of Jones Snowboards. During his time at Patagonia, Josh worked a variety of marketing positions, working his way up in seniority, from Grassroots Marketer to Senior Director of Brand Global Marketing.
Heritage Brand Mistral Acquired by Dutch Investors NMG
Since becoming a huge name in the SUP biz, lifestyle and watersports brand Mistral plans to continue to expand their international reach and grow in existing markets. To help do this and build Mistral internationally, the brand has been acquired by Dutch investor Nederlands MerkGoed (NMG).
Greenover Sports Appointed UK Distributor of Euroglass
Technical surfboard shaping & manufacturing brand, Euroglass has appointed Greenover Sports, action sports distributor for the UK and Europe, to distribute their products within the UK.