Shimano sets up own distribution channels across Europe

Shimano Europe and various Rapala VMC Group companies are terminating their exclusive distribution agreements in some European countries from February 7th.

Shimano says it will be setting up its own channels from the date, to handle the marketing, sales and distribution of the Shimano, G-Loomis and Power Pro fishing tackle brands.

Its bicycle components exclusive distribution rights with Rapala will end two days earlier, on Februry 5th, for the Russian Federation and Belarus.

Countries affected by the fishing tackle rethink include Hungary, the Czech Republic and Slovakia, where sales, services and marketing will be handled by Shimano Poland with a sales representative appointed for each country.

Shimano Europe’s international sales department will look after all sales, services and marketing for Croatia, Romania, Bulgaria, Slovenia, Albania, Montenegro, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Bosnia and Serbia. For Croatia, Bulgaria and Romania a sales representative has been appointed.

The same Shimano Europe international sales department will also handle sales, invoicing and delivery for Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan.

Marc van Rooij, president of Shimano Europe Group, (pictured below) said: “The decision to make these moves was necessary in order to enable Shimano to further strengthen its fishing tackle gear and bicycle components business in the eastern part of Europe.

“For all countries and businesses involved, Shimano is to serve the retail market and bicycle OEM customers with the best conditions, including warranty and repair services. We are currently in the process of developing our sales development and account teams to perform according to these goals.”

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