Accapi Group - European distributor of Ruffwear, Planet Dog and Kurgo - has welcomed Gillian Hammersley to the team, strengthening its UK sales force following the successful extension of a £20m deal with adventure dog brand Ruffwear.

Gillian, who is joining Accapi as UK Sales Manager, will be a strategic driver in exploiting new market opportunities and expanding their already rapid growth.

Gillian’s background at Lifemarque Ltd, Bradshaw Taylor and Blacks Leisure Group has provided her with over ten years of account management and sales experience. Plus, having recently set up her own dog walking business, she spoke of the opportunity at Accapi as a ‘perfect fit’ for her passion and skill set.

Her appointment comes following the successful renewal of Accapi Group’s contract with USA brand Ruffwear, a global leader in outdoor dog gear. Following record growth of 130% in 2014/15, Accapi have renegotiated a five-year agreement as Ruffwear’s exclusive European distributor only 18 months into their current contract, with the value of the deal for Accapi increasing to £20m.