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Greg Blackwell is to succeed Chuck Hooper as president of US distributor Seattle Bike Supply (SBS) as from May.
SBS, owned by Accell, will see Blackwell join from Lemans Corporation, parent company of Parts Unlimited, where he spent 15 years. While there, he directed sales and marketing to successfully build the world’s largest distributor of powersport aftermarket parts and accessories.
According to the press statement, Blackwell has a parts-focused background. He was also closely involved in the overall direction and furthering of the successful Icon, Thor, Slippery, Moose, Z1R, Arctiva and AMS powersports brands.
Blackwell will work with Hooper during the transition of leadership, with Hooper then continuing in a ‘directional role’ within the corporate leadership of SBS for the foreseeable future.
“I am excited to welcome Greg as the new president of SBS – we couldn’t have found a better fit,” said Hooper. “Greg has a demonstrated passion for cycling, building brands and doing business with specialty dealers. He’s well known for creative sales leadership and will bring incredible value to a well run business with a legacy for excellent dealer service.”
SBS enters its 39th year in 2013 with a strong plan for growth in both its parts distribution business and for continuing innovation with its stand-alone brands.
Blackwell added: “SBS is a global leader in the bike industry and has an amazing team with a strong vision and energy for the future. SBS is a company that I highly respect – it represents deep roots, integrity and innovation and prioritises specialty retail relationships. I couldn’t be more excited to join the team.”
Hooper concluded: “After 28 years at Seattle Bike Supply, the last 20 years as President, it will take awhile to hand everything over and I would not feel right stepping down until everyone felt comfortable in their new roles. I am looking forward to retirement time but will be available to SBS and Accell to work on special projects after I step down as President.”
Founded in 1974, Seattle Bike Supply has four warehouse locations in the US, dealing with over 150 brands in the bike market, selling exclusively to bike dealers.
www.seattlebikesupply.com
