Further to opening a new German distribution centre in late 2022, Accapi group, the exclusive European distributor of American dog brand Ruffwear, has continued to blaze a trail of growth across the D-A-CH region with plans to significantly increase business in 2023.
The performance dog brand which has a focus on producing premium gear for outdoor adventurers and their human companions has implemented its first German ‘competence centre’ in Munich-based pet specialist, Hundemaxx.
The Ruffwear zone on the first floor of the 3,000 sq. m store allows shoppers to browse an extensive range of products and have their dog custom fitted and measured, by Ruffwear trained staff, using the new harness measuring and fitting station in the store.
Herr Weber, owner of Hundemaxx said: “We have been a proud stockist of Ruffwear since 2014 and the introduction of the new competence centre has further extended the range of products from Ruffwear and extended the display area to 20 sq. metres. This in turn has increased our sales of Ruffwear and more footfall into the store from shoppers looking for specific gear to enjoy outdoor adventures with their dogs.”
Based on the very positive reception this centre has received, the Accapi Group, which represents the brand in 31 European countries, plans to open and implement several Ruffwear competence centres around Germany in the spring and summer of 2023 as well as other countries in Europe.
Ruffwear brand president, Branden Hill, visited Germany and northern Europe this month, to meet with strategic retail partners on a fact finding and market positioning mission, to take back his findings and insights on the German and European Pet and Outdoor Industry back to the Ruffwear team in Oregon USA. He also met with the European sales team with five on-the-ground agents working in Germany, Austria and Switzerland who are opening new stores with large and medium sized chains and independent stores.
David Drachman-Sunne. European Sales Director said: “Our growth plans are ambitious and are only just beginning, the demand for the brand is strong. In 2022 Ruffwear was the most searched/Googled premium outdoor dog brand in Germany which shows consumer awareness and demand for the brand is rising.
David continued: “In the times we are currently living through, the industry, tends to invest in strong suppliers and solid brands that bring stable earnings, high quality, and customer satisfaction. A reliable supply chain and delivery security have become a decisive competitive parameter. Thanks to our new team and a warehouse facility which can service retailers and dispatch orders the same day without duty or import charges, we’re now set up for success for rapid growth.”
Accapi Group is the exclusive European distributor of Ruffwear. For further information about becoming a stockist contact david.drachman-sunne@accapigroup.com
Pictured: Andrew Geere, CEO at Accapi Group, with Herr Weber, owner at Hundemaxx, in the new Ruffwear competence centre in Munich.
