REI Co-op announces Roma McCaig as new vice president of public affairs and impact

SEATTLE, November 27, 2023 – Today, REI announces the hire of corporate communications and sustainability leader Roma McCaig as the co-op’s new vice president of public affairs and impact.

McCaig brings more than 25 years of experience at the forefront of communications, business operations, and impact to REI. Most recently, she served as senior vice president of impact and communications at Clif Bar & Company. Prior to that, she worked in a variety of roles at Campbell Soup Company, including leadership roles in operations, procurement and corporate social responsibility. She also serves on the boards of B Lab U.S. & Canada and Sustainable Brands.

“Roma is a well-respected leader who is known for crafting transformative change and impact at scale with iconic brands,” said Ben Steele, chief customer officer, REI. “Her significant sustainability experience will guide our broad community impact work as REI continues to provide a consistent voice of influence within the outdoor industry and broader business space.”

In her role at REI, McCaig and the newly created public affairs and impact organization will work to scale the co-op’s mission and purpose. This work will include internal and external communications, employee events and recognition, sustainability, community partnerships, philanthropic giving, public policy, government affairs and broader advocacy initiatives.

“I joined the co-op nearly 20 years ago and have been a loyal member of REI ever since as my premier source for outdoor, adventure, and travel gear,” says McCaig. “Getting to join the REI team is a dream come true. I believe in my core that business can be a force for good, and that everyone should have equal access to time outside.”

About the REI Co-op  

REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of 23 million members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. REI has 188 locations in 42 states and the District of Columbia. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI Outlet or the REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. Adventurers can take the trip of a lifetime with REI’s active adventure travel company that runs more than 100 itineraries across the country. In many communities where REI has a presence, professionally trained instructors share their expertise by hosting beginner-to advanced-level classes and workshops about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to—and steward—the outdoor places that inspire us all.

 

###

REI Co-op announces Roma McCaig as new vice president of public affairs and impact

SEATTLE, November 27, 2023 – Today, REI announces the hire of corporate communications and sustainability leader Roma McCaig as the co-op’s new vice president of public affairs and impact.

McCaig brings more than 25 years of experience at the forefront of communications, business operations, and impact to REI. Most recently, she served as senior vice president of impact and communications at Clif Bar & Company. Prior to that, she worked in a variety of roles at Campbell Soup Company, including leadership roles in operations, procurement and corporate social responsibility. She also serves on the boards of B Lab U.S. & Canada and Sustainable Brands.

“Roma is a well-respected leader who is known for crafting transformative change and impact at scale with iconic brands,” said Ben Steele, chief customer officer, REI. “Her significant sustainability experience will guide our broad community impact work as REI continues to provide a consistent voice of influence within the outdoor industry and broader business space.”

In her role at REI, McCaig and the newly created public affairs and impact organization will work to scale the co-op’s mission and purpose. This work will include internal and external communications, employee events and recognition, sustainability, community partnerships, philanthropic giving, public policy, government affairs and broader advocacy initiatives.

“I joined the co-op nearly 20 years ago and have been a loyal member of REI ever since as my premier source for outdoor, adventure, and travel gear,” says McCaig. “Getting to join the REI team is a dream come true. I believe in my core that business can be a force for good, and that everyone should have equal access to time outside.”

About the REI Co-op

REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of 23 million members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. REI has 188 locations in 42 states and the District of Columbia. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.com, REI Outlet or the REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. Adventurers can take the trip of a lifetime with REI’s active adventure travel company that runs more than 100 itineraries across the country. In many communities where REI has a presence, professionally trained instructors share their expertise by hosting beginner-to advanced-level classes and workshops about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to—and steward—the outdoor places that inspire us all.

 

REI Co-op Cyber Week Sale and holiday deals make gift giving easy for everyone on the list

November 27, 2023 — Share the love of the outdoors with friends and loved ones. No matter the weather, REI Co-op has all the best gift options for hiking, running, skiing, camping, cycling, paddling, or walking adventures. With an easy-to-navigate online gift guide, to special deals running through the month on gear, apparel and outings, REI has hundreds of ideas to help outfit anyone on the list.
During the co-op’s “Cyber Week Sale and Clearance Event” save up to 50% off with great deals on top brands like The North Face, KEEN, Salomon, Black Diamond, Hydro Flask, Garmin, Columbia, Yakima, Thule, Smartwool, REI Co-op and many more. Current deals for select items will end after Cyber Monday on Nov. 27, while other deals will continue to run through Dec. 4.Deal highlights:

  • 40% off all REI Co-op brand fleece clothing, rain jackets and more
  • 50% off all REI Co-op brand Magma 850 Down Hoodies
  • 25% off gear from Hydro Flask, Black Diamond, Rumpl, Marmot, GSI Outdoors, Gerber and more
  • 25% off footwear from La Sportiva, Oboz, Salomon, KEEN, Altra and more
  • 25% off clothing from Columbia, Outdoor Research, Black Diamond, Duer and more
  • 20% off all Yakima and Thule racks, roof boxes and rack accessories
  • 30% off all The North Face clothing, gear and footwear – Nov. 27 only
  • 40% off selected Saucony running shoes – Nov. 27 only
  • REI Co-op Members save an extra 25% off one online REI Outlet item with code “CYBER23” through Nov. 27. Terms apply.
  • Save up to 60% off handpicked online deals at REI Outlet Nov. 28 through Dec. 4
  • REI Co-op Members save 10% off selected REI Adventure Travel trips to Zion and Bryce Canyon, Catalina Island, Alaska, the Grand Canyon and Lake Powell, and Shenandoah when booked Nov. 25 through Dec. 18. Terms apply. For trip details see www.REI.com/trips-on-sale.

REI believes the best gifts are meant to go outside. REI’s online gift center makes it easy to find the best gifts by category or price point. From stocking stuffers like gift cards, socks, mittens, hats, headlamps, or insulated mugs, to bigger items including jackets, blankets, backpacks, tents or e-bikes, and gifts for pets or kiddos, REI’s guide selections will help create outdoor memories for years to come.

Invite someone to go outside by gifting an REI Co-op membership for a lifetime of outdoor adventure. An REI Co-op membership gives loved ones year-round access to even better deals on favorite gear and apparel brands. Members who join the co-op for a one-time $30 fee enjoy a range of benefits, including access to the co-op’s lightly used gear and trade-in program called Re/Supply; discounts on shop services and experiences; a share of the co-op’s annual profits based on qualifying purchases in the form of a Member Reward; and more. In addition to discounts at the co-op’s bike shop, REI members receive free flat tire repair (labor only, parts not included) and free machine wax for skis and snowboards.

REI Co-op members always enjoy free shipping, and everyone can enjoy free shipping for orders over $50. Order before 9 a.m. PT on December 19 for standard shipping by December 25. Following the co-op’s cyber week sale, stay tuned for more incredible holiday deals in mid-December and take advantage of continued great deals – some just for REI members.

About the REI Co-op

REI is a specialty outdoor retailer, headquartered near Seattle. The nation’s largest consumer co-op, REI is a growing community of 23 million members who expect and love the best quality gear, inspiring expert classes and trips, and outstanding customer service. REI has 188 locations in 42 states and the District of Columbia. If you can’t visit a store, you can shop at REI.comREI Outlet or the REI shopping app. REI isn’t just about gear. Adventurers can take the trip of a lifetime with REI’s active adventure travel company that runs more than 100 itineraries across the country. In many communities where REI has a presence, professionally trained instructors share their expertise by hosting beginner-to advanced-level classes and workshops about a wide range of activities. To build on the infrastructure that makes life outside possible, REI invests millions annually in hundreds of local and national nonprofits that create access to—and steward—the outdoor places that inspire us all.

Backcountry Announces Sale of European Subsidiary, Bergfreunde

PARK CITY, Utah (Nov. 27, 2023) Backcountry, the leading, premium specialty retailer of outdoor gear and apparel, has entered into a definitive agreement to sell its European subsidiary, Bergfreunde, to Decathlon, a global sporting goods retailer based in France. This strategic decision will allow Backcountry to reduce leverage and focus on amplifying its core business in the North American market.

Bergfreunde has experienced significant growth under Backcountry’s ownership. The successful partnership with Backcountry has positioned Bergfreunde to further grow its European footprint alongside Decathlon, with its 45+ years of experience and deep international roots within the outdoor market. Decathlon, known for its extensive range of affordable and high-quality outdoor products, will acquire Bergfreunde’s well-established brand and customer base in Europe. The acquisition is in line with Decathlon’s commitment to expanding its presence and offering diverse outdoor solutions to customers across the region.

“We’re proud of Bergfreunde’s growth over Backcountry’s 10-year ownership and look forward to watching its continued success with Decathlon,” says Melanie Cox, Backcountry CEO. “Closing this deal will allow Backcountry to focus on furthering its commitment to the North American market, as well as explore new opportunities to expand the Backcountry brand.”

Backcountry, along with North American subsidiaries Competitive Cyclist, Motosport and Steep and Cheap, will continue to grow its business through ecommerce, retail storefronts, and wholesale expansion.

J.P. Morgan Securities acted as financial advisor to Backcountry and Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom LLP acted as legal advisor.

For more information and media inquiries, please email Kevin McCormack at kevin.mccormack@rygr.us.

###

About Backcountry

Since our founding in 1996, Backcountry’s vision has been to provide the best outdoor gear—and to be the best at doing it. We differentiate ourselves with a broad assortment of premium outdoor lifestyle gear and apparel from hundreds of brands, including our Backcountry Gear and Apparel line, paired with expert Gearhead customer service and a seamless omnichannel offering. Backcountry elevates the entire outdoor experience and delivers memorable interactions that bring our customers back season-after-season.

About Decathlon

Decathlon S.E. based in Villeneuve-d’Ascq (northern France), is an internationally active manufacturer and distributor of sports equipment and clothing. The range of more than 35,000 different sport related items, which is mainly based on own brands, offers equipment and clothes for more than 75 sports. The company has more than 1,751 shops in 72 countries and has more than 105,000 employees. In 2022, Decathlon had net revenues of €15.4 billion, growing 12% over 2021.

About TSG Consumer Partners

TSG Consumer Partners, LP is a leading private equity firm with approximately $20 billion in assets under management that partners with founders and management teams to build and accelerate growth for best-in-class consumer-facing businesses. Since its founding in 1986, TSG has been an active investor in the consumer industry. Representative past and present partner companies include Canyon Bicycles, Duckhorn, Dutch Bros, e.l.f. Cosmetics, IT Cosmetics, Joe Hudson’s Collision Centers, Mavis Tires, Planet Fitness, popchips, Power Stop, Radiance Holdings, REVOLVE, Revolut, Rough Country, Smashbox, Super Star Car Wash, Stumptown, The Wrench Group, Thrive Pet Healthcare, and Vitaminwater. For more information, visit tsgconsumer.com.

 

 

 

 

Vimazi to introduce more pace-tuned running shoes at The Running Event 2023

Portland, Ore. (Nov. 27, 2023) – Over the last year Vimazi has continued to showcase and educate the run industry on the biomechanical advantages of pace-tuned running shoes. Vimazi’s tuning technology increases impact cushioning and torsional stability over other shoe technologies and delivers important health benefits. The tuned density of Vimazi’s Z-Foam midsole balances the different forces generated under the foot to ensure reduced shock on landing and increased control during push-off. Vimazi’s full collection now features shoes for walkers, fitness runners, elite marathoners, ultra-distance trail runners and everything in between.

New to their line-up is the new Trail Z2 and Trail Z3 which offer a smoother transition from road to trail than current generations of trail running shoes. The Trail Z2 is specifically tuned for greater control on steep terrain and faster descents, while the Trail Z3 is tuned for a softer ride and slower descents. The smooth road performance is thanks in part to the flat surfaced outsole lugs in combination with sawtooth patterns for both muddy and hard surface traction. Both models feature an external rear stabilizer, stump-ready toe protection,  built-in forefoot control during push-off, and a roomy toe box. The trail shoes come in men’s and women’s versions and will retail for $170 MSRP.

Being featured for the first time is Vimazi’s new walking shoe, tuned to a walking gait. The Vimazi Z90 is biomechanically tuned for maximum comfort and minimum stress whether walking briskly, strolling or working out at the gym. The patented technology strikes the scientifically derived balance of stiffness and comfort between heel and forefoot to reduce the stress and fatigue on the feet. The sock-style design, crafted with stretchy engineered mesh, makes the Z90 ridiculously comfortable and easy to slip on and off. A low drop, rocker, and flexibility make walking feel effortless. The shoe comes in a men’s and women’s version and retails for $150.

This year Vimazi has focused on growing both their direct-to-consumer business as well as growing in specialty retailers. Vimazi has also worked on growing their business internationally with distribution in Switzerland, Australia and New Zealand. Vimazi brought on industry expert Scott McCoubrey as National Sales Manager and has worked to grow the retail side of the business throughout the year.

Additionally, Vimazi created a Medical Advisory Board comprised of sports medicine experts, podiatric surgeons and biomechanists with a shared goal of reducing running injuries. The Vimazi Medical Advisory Board works with the brand to broaden and deepen the scientific understanding of impact strain and stability stress on the body while running, specifically with respect to running footwear and the innovation of pace-tuned shoes.

The full line-up of Vimazi’s pace-tuned shoes will be on display at The Running Event this year. Vimazi will be in booth #1742. To schedule an appointment please contact marisa@verdepr.com.

To learn more about Vimazi, follow along on social media and sign up for their email newsletter at https://vimazi.com/.

About Vimazi

Founded by footwear industry veterans and life-long marathoners, Vimazi shoes are engineered to reduce shock and increase stability,  because they balance the different forces underfoot in walking and running.  The patented FastPod technology is derived from the pure  physics of motion.  For additional information, please visit vimazi.com or email faster@vimazi.com.

 

 

Jogology Running Socks Makes Inaugural Debut at The Running Event 2023

Wake Forest, N.C. (Nov. 27, 2023) – New performance running sock brand Jogology launched exclusively at Run specialty retailers throughout the U.S. in September and now is carried in over 60 retailer partners across the U.S. The new brand will make its formal debut to the industry at The Running Event (TRE) November 28-30, 2023 in Austin, Texas. TRE attendees can meet Jogology founders Tanya and Bert Pictor and Luke Rowe and see the entire sock collection at booth #923.

“We are very excited to be attending TRE this year as a new brand, and we couldn’t be more eager to see retailer friends and make new industry connections for Jogology,” said Tanya Pictor, co-founder of Jogology. “When creating our business plan and core brand tenants, Bert, Luke, and I always knew we wanted to focus on specialty retailers. We know that Run Specialty is the heart of the run industry, and  we have been thrilled with their response to Jogology.”

Jogology prioritizes supporting and fostering the growth of its valued retail partners and is committed to building enduring partnerships. Recently, the team has spent time visiting all the new retail stores that just started distributing Jogology’s socks to connect with store owners and sales associates. Going the extra mile for their partners is how Jogology shows its retail partners how they can thrive together, contributing to each other’s success and this commitment lays the foundation for continuous growth and success.

Jogology has already seen early success and positive responses from media and consumers alike. The collection of low, medium and high cushion no show socks recently won 2024 Gear of the Year from Runner’s World.

In the coming months Jogology plans to continue growing their retail presence. They also plan to grow a new ambassador program with key members of local running communities to share the Jogology message and brand commitment to all runners.

For additional information on Jogology, please visit https://jogology.com/.

About Jogology

Jogology™ is a performance running sock brand made by runners, for runners. One unique design, one sustainable moisture-management yarn, all the bells and whistles you need to perform at your best. Our socks provide comfort, performance and value all in equal measures. They’re designed to help you go the distance, whatever that may be for you. Partnering with and supporting organizations that reach out and connect with the running community is a key pillar of this new brand. Our aim is that Jogology™ becomes a vehicle for all runners, each with their own unique social interests, to be able to reach out and connect where it matters to them most. To learn more about the brand, please visit: jogology.com.

 

 

 

 

 

Tailwind Nutrition Launches Rapid Hydration Drink Mix

Durango, Colo. (Nov. 27. 2023) – Tailwind Nutrition, the leading provider of simple and complete nutrition products, has launched Rapid Hydration, an all natural electrolyte drink mix that quenches your thirst and rapidly replaces what you sweat out with the right blend of electrolytes and Vitamin C. The powder mixes quick and clear with a clean, light taste to optimize your hydration during workouts or throughout the day.

“After releasing Active Hydration last year, we heard very loudly from customers that they didn’t like the addition of collagen or the smaller serving size. We took that customer feedback to heart and created Rapid Hydration,” says Tailwind co-founder Jenny Vierling. “And, the flavors are even better, especially since Rapid Hydration uses real cane sugar instead of fake sweeteners like Stevia, monk fruit juice, and sucralose which can taste artificial and leave an aftertaste.”

Rapid Hydration has a clean, refreshing taste that delivers a subtle yet satisfying flavor that will leave your tastebuds happy. Available in five tempting flavors – Orange, Strawberry Lemonade, Lemon Lime, Berry, and Raspberry – Rapid Hydration is packaged as individual sachets in 12-pack boxes. One 13-gram sachet has 45 calories.

Rapid Hydration helps you hydrate faster than just drinking water alone and provides electrolytes to replace what is lost in sweat. Similar to Tailwind’s Endurance Fuel, Rapid Hydration takes advantage of the body’s active transport mechanism to maximize the absorption of calories, electrolytes and water.

While Rapid Hydration is ideal for everyday hydration or short workouts, Endurance Fuel is all you need for sustained efforts over longer periods of time and for high levels of intensity. After workouts, Tailwind Nutrition’s Recovery Mix helps athletes recover quickly so you can get back out on the trails doing more of what you love.

Rapid Hydration (MSRP: $18.99 USD/12-pack) is available on TailwindNutrition.com and through specialty retailers.

About Tailwind Nutrition

Celebrating its 11th Anniversary in 2023, Tailwind Nutrition manufactures all-natural sports nutrition products that are free of GMOs, dairy, soy, and gluten, are easy to digest, and support an athlete’s fueling and recovery needs during exercise. Owned, operated and manufactured in Durango, Tailwind Nutrition’s specially formulated drink mixes help athletes perform and compete at their highest level without the worry of food allergies or sensitivities. All you need. Really.® For more information visit tailwindnutrition.com

 

RECCO launches new rescue reflector that can be integrated into extremely lightweight, packable garments

STOCKHOLM, Sweden. (Nov. 27, 2023)RECCO, manufacturer of advanced rescue technology, in partnership with Helly Hansen will debut the Odin Everdown Hooded Jacket, the first product that uses the new RECCO reflector 742LT. The reflector design is incredibly compact, lightweight and flexible, allowing for easy integration into garments that are also very light and packable.

The Helly Hansen Odin Everdown Hooded Jacket will be the first lightweight and packable down jacket with a RECCO reflector integrated, made possible by the unique design of the 742LT reflector. Garments that integrate a RECCO reflector help make their wearer searchable by rescue teams in the event of an emergency.

The RECCO reflector 742LT boasts innovative features, weighing in at only 1 gram and measuring just over 2mm. The high-quality, flexible silicone material and design used in the reflector allow it to be integrated without affecting the design of a lightweight jacket. The design ensures the reflector remains temperature and abrasion-resistant while ensuring wearers are searchable by rescue professionals for the life of the garment.

“Our new award-winning Odin Everdown hooded jacket is lightweight but super warm due to the uniform structure of this innovative insulation, which leaves no cold spots,” said Philip Tavell, VP of Outdoor at Helly Hansen. “The jacket features a lightweight RECCO reflector to make sure our professional partners and outdoor enthusiasts alike stay searchable. Our SAR and mountain guide partners see it as a huge benefit to add a RECCO reflector to a product you can always carry with you due to its lightweight and packability.”

The Helly Hansen Odin Everdown Hooded Jacket feels lightweight — 325g for men’s large, 275g for women’s medium — while delivering heavyweight warmth. The uniform structure of this innovative insulation creates a continuous and even distribution of goose down, removing the need for horizontal stitching which often leads to cool air passing through to the body in those areas. Strategic placement of the insulation within the body and the hood enables unrestricted movement and temperature regulation, while PFC-free DWR treatment on the exterior helps provide weather protection.

”We are really excited to present the reflector 742LT integrated in the Helly Hansen Odin Everdown Hooded Jacket. This reflector will help us on our mission to make more people searchable and help rescuers save lives worldwide,” says Fredrik Steinwall, CEO at RECCO.

Essential to the year-round rescue system is the innovative RECCO SAR Helicopter Detector. Searching from a height of 100 meters and covering a search area of approximately 100 meters wide, the system enables rescuers to search 1km² within 6 minutes.

Currently, there are 36 RECCO SAR Helicopter Detectors globally, with 12 located in North America and 24 units deployed across Europe. The latest deployments include Helico Secours, Quebec (CAN), Spokane Regional Air Support Unit (US), and a RECCO SAR helicopter detector based out of Lauterbrunnen (SUI) operated by Air Glaciers.

RECCO will be at ISPO Munich on November 28-30 showcasing its new reflectors and key product partner launches like the Helly Hansen Odin Everdown Hooded Jacket (in store FW24), the Black Diamond Vision airNET Harness (available in store), Oakley’s Mod BC Helmet (in store FW24) and the Scott Flow Plus Pro Helmet (in store FW24) at booth A2.400.

For more information about RECCO, please visit recco.com.

About RECCO

RECCO® advanced rescue technology makes outdoor enthusiasts searchable to rescuers in case of an avalanche accident or when lost in the outdoors. The technology builds on a two-part radar system. Rescuers carry RECCO® detectors that send out search signals which are echoed by RECCO® reflectors, carried by the user. RECCO® detectors are used worldwide at more than 900 ski resorts and mountain rescue organizations in 32 countries. RECCO® reflectors are integrated into select apparel, helmets, protection gear and boots manufactured by more than 150 leading outdoor brands. RECCO AB was founded in 1983 in Sweden and is owned by its founder Magnus Granhed and the publicly traded investment company Traction AB (listed on OMX Nordic Exchange Stockholm). More info at recco.com.

About Helly Hansen

Founded in Norway in 1877, Helly Hansen continues to develop professional grade apparel that helps people stay and feel alive.  Through insights drawn from living and working in the world’s harshest environments, the company has developed a long list of first-to-market innovations, including the first supple waterproof fabrics more than 140 years ago. Other breakthroughs include the first fleece fabrics in the 1960s, the first technical base layers in the 1970s, made with LIFA® Stay Dry technology, the patented H2Flow™ temperature regulating system, and the revolutionary lighter, warmer LIFALOFT™ insulation. Building on Helly Hansen’s proprietary HELLY TECH® waterproof/breathable system, the technical outdoor brand has most recently introduced the award-winning LIFA INFINITY PRO™ – the company’s most innovative and responsible waterproof/breathable technology to date.

Helly Hansen is a leader in technical sailing and performance ski apparel, as well as premium workwear. Its uniforms are worn and trusted by more than 55,000 professionals and can be found on Olympians, National Teams, and at more than 200 ski resorts and mountain guiding operations globally.

Helly Hansen’s outerwear, base layers, sportswear and footwear are sold in more than 40 countries around the world and the company is owned by Canadian Tire Corporation (CTC). To learn more about Helly Hansen’s latest collections, visit www.hellyhansen.com.

 

– X X X –

 

Norrøna Appoints Meagan Millar as New Sales Agency Representative for Southwest U.S.

OSLO, Norway (Nov. 21, 2023) – Norrøna, the renowned Norwegian outdoor brand, is delighted to announce the appointment of Meagan Millar as the new sales agency representative for the Southwest region of the United States. Meagan brings over 20 years of experience in the outdoor industry and a profound understanding of the Southwest market.

“We are so thrilled to have Meagan join the Norrøna team,” said Andi Malboeuf, Norrøna’s U.S. Sales Manager. “Her experience as a buyer brings a wealth of industry knowledge and a fresh perspective to the sales side of the business. Meagan’s passion for the brand and her love for the outdoors is a perfect fit.”

In her previous role at PlumpJackSport and Tahoe Sports Hub, Meagan held the positions of Director of Retail Operations & Buyer and Soft Goods Buyer & Merchandiser, respectively. She possesses a wealth of knowledge in soft goods and brings a fresh buyer’s perspective to the selling team.

“I am excited to join the Norrøna team,” expressed Meagan Millar. “I have long admired Norrøna’s dedication to quality and innovation and I am eager to contribute to the company’s continued growth.”

Meagan will be responsible for developing and executing sales strategies for Norrøna in the Southwest region. She will also collaborate closely with Norrøna’s marketing team to develop and implement marketing campaigns tailored to the region.

Norrøna’s current regional sales agencies and representatives include:

⦁          Key accounts/General inquiries/Business development – Andi Malboeuf at ⦁            andi@norrona.no

⦁          Rocky Mountains, Intermountain West – Ian Decker at ⦁            ian@blackdogsalesgroup.com

⦁          Pacific Northwest – Tyler Haasch at ⦁ Info@summitsalesnw.com

⦁          Northeast – David Nihan at ⦁ davenihan@gmail.com

⦁          Mid Atlantic, Southeast – Chris Bremer at ⦁ remer.norrona@gmail.com

⦁          Midwest – Tony Koziak at ⦁ tony@getkozyoutdoors.com

⦁          Canada accounts – Ryan Letchford at ⦁ ryan@wabisabisales.com

⦁          Southwest – Meagan Miller at ⦁ megmillarsales@gmail.com

For media inquiries, please reach out to Rob Steffens, rob.steffens@rygr.us

###

About Norrøna: In 1929, Jørgen Jørgensen, a Norwegian outdoor enthusiast, began his search for durable outdoor equipment to perform in Norway´s harsh and rugged land. Starting with simple innovations such as leather straps, canvas backpacks and cotton clothing, he set Norrøna’s direction: To search for the best in technical advancements and to create the ultimate performance products. Today, four generations later, Norrøna is still a family-owned and run company and a leader in the growing market of sustainable sportswear.

 

 

6th Annual Beacon Bash returns to Winter Park to promote avalanche education and safety

DENVER (Nov. 21, 2023) – The highly anticipated 6th Annual Beacon Bash is set to return to Winter Park, Colorado, on Dec. 2, 2023 for a day filled with avalanche education, backcountry camaraderie and gear demos. Hosted by Winter Park Resort in partnership with Weston, this year’s Beacon Bash promises to be an unforgettable event for outdoor enthusiasts and safety-conscious individuals.

Beacon Bash is renowned as Colorado’s premier pre-season gathering dedicated to avalanche education and promoting the backcountry community. This event provides an opportunity for attendees to learn and refresh their avalanche rescue skills, engage in beacon training, connect with the backcountry community and support outstanding non-profit organizations like the Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC), Friends of Berthoud Pass, the Winter Park Rescue Dog Team, and Grand County Search and Rescue.

Beacon Bash offers an array of activities and experiences to engage everyone, from experienced backcountry adventurers to newcomers seeking to explore Colorado’s pristine wilderness safely. Attendees can look forward to:

  • Avalanche Education: Expert instructors will provide informative and engaging sessions on avalanche safety, risk assessment, and decision-making in the backcountry.
  • Beacon Training Workshops: Brush up on your avalanche beacon skills through hands-on practice and guidance from seasoned professionals. Whether you’re a novice or an expert, there’s always something new to learn.
  • Community Building: Connect with like-minded individuals, make new friends, and network with potential backcountry partners. Beacon Bash is a perfect opportunity to grow your circle of adventure companions.
  • Fundraising for a Cause: As a testament to the community’s commitment to safety and preservation, the event will raise funds for Colorado Avalanche Information Center (CAIC), Friends of Berthoud Pass, the Winter Park Rescue Dog Team, and Grand County Search and Rescue.
  • Raffle Prizes: The Beacon Bash will be raffling off incredible backcountry gear from an array of outdoor brands.
  • Vendors Galore: Explore the latest gear and equipment from outdoor industry leaders and discover new products to enhance your backcountry experience.

Beacon Bash is made possible through the generous support of its sponsors, Weston, Winter Park Resort, Women Who Splitboard, Grass Sticks, Zeal, Engearment, Phantom, Ortovox, Yakima, Adventure Wagon, Cascade Designs, Gregory, Dynafit, Pomoca, BCA, Hot Chillys, Colorado Adventure Guides, Venture, USDSSA, Arc’teryx, Outdoor Research, Tailwind Nutrition, ROLL Recovery, Bivouac Coffee, SCARPA, Telos, Arbor Collective, Beacon Guidebooks.  These brands’ commitment to promoting safety and community within the outdoor industry is truly commendable, and their partnership ensures the event’s continued success.

The Beacon Bash invites all adventure enthusiasts, snow sports aficionados and safety-conscious individuals to be a part of this incredible event, and is free to attend for the public.

To stay up-to-date on announcements and for further information about Beacon Bash, including the schedule and full list of vendors, please visit the Beacon Bash event page on Facebook.

About Beacon Bash:

With humble beginnings as a small group of friends interested in learning backcountry safety,  Beacon Bash is now a certified 501(c) non-profit which holds an annual event held in Winter Park, Colorado, dedicated to avalanche education and building a strong backcountry community. The event offers attendees the chance to enhance their avalanche safety skills, connect with like-minded individuals and support valuable non-profit organizations within the industry.

About Winter Park Resort:

Winter Park Resort is a renowned ski and snowboarding destination in Colorado, offering a wide range of winter activities and events. The resort is proud to support Beacon Bash and its mission of promoting safety and community within the backcountry industry.