Shimano Europe President confirms new distribution networks in 16 countries

Shimano Europe is to set up its own fishing tackle distribution channels in 16 countries from February 7th. The company’s previous exclusive distribution agreements with Rapala VMC Corporation in Europe will terminate.

The announcement is the culmination of the split that was first announced in January 2019, marking the end of the 23-year agreement with Rapala. The move will involve the marketing, sales and distribution of the Shimano, G. Loomis and Power Pro tackle brands.

In Hungary, the Czech Republic and Slovakia, sales, service and marketing will be handled by Shimano Poland and a sales representative has been appointed for each of these countries.

In Croatia, Romania, Bulgaria, Slovenia, Albania, Montenegro, Kosovo, North Macedonia, Bosnia and Serbia sales, service and marketing will be handled by Shimano Europe’s International Sales Department. Sales representatives have been appointed for Croatia, Bulgaria and Romania.

In Russia, Belarus and Kazakhstan sales, invoicing and delivery will be handled by Shimano Europe’s International Sales Department.

The move also affects Shimano’s bicycle components business in the Russian Federation and Belarus.

“The decision to make these moves was necessary in order to enable Shimano to further strengthen its fishing tackle gear and bicycle components business in the Eastern part of Europe,” said Marc van Rooij, President of the Shimano Europe Group. “For all countries and businesses involved, Shimano is to serve the retail market and bicycle OEM customers with the best conditions, including warranty and repair services. We are currently in the process of developing our sales development and account teams to perform according to these goals.”