CHICAGO (BRAIN) — Abus has reduced its U.S. distributor list from four to two, saying it is expanding its relationship with QBP and Highway Two while ending business with J&B and Hawley at year's end.
The company said the decision was driven by continued growth in the U.S. and will allow its staff to focus its energies on a smaller list of distributors.
"We enjoyed big increases in brand awareness and business in the U.S. due in part to the strong support of Highway Two and QBP. We are very excited to focus our efforts into working with these very professional and retailer oriented distributors in order to grow our market share in the U.S. Highway Two and QBP have the distribution channels and team's in place to make this a reality," said Axel Roesler, the sales and marketing director for Abus' international mobile security business.
QBP and Highway Two will be stocking a full line of Abus locks, the company said.
Rich Tauer, the president of QBP, said, "QBP is excited to expand our partnership with Abus while featuring their innovative, category leading locks in our Dealer's Choice strategy. Abus provides sustainable profitability for dealers in bike security and QBP stocks Abus product at all four of our distribution centers."
Highway Two will also be distributing Abus' line of commuter helmets.
George Eubanks of Highway Two said, "Highway Two is excited to strengthen our partnership and focus with Abus. They are the premium lock brand in the world and nestle in beautifully with our other category leading products. Fortunately for all retailers, bicycle security and rider safety are areas with substantial growth opportunity. Every customer that walks in a retail store should have a lock and helmet — no matter where you live — so why not sell them the best."
Regarding J&B and Hawley, Abus said, "Abus is very grateful for the efforts of their former partners that helped grow the brand in the U.S. market, and wish them the best of luck in the future."
Hawley's sister company, Lambert, will continue to distribute Abus in Canada.
