Akkermans swaps retail for new mission

André Akkermans is to leave his role as European Commercial Director at retailer Angling Direct to join Sportvisserij Zuidwest Nederland, an organisation promoting sportfishing.

“Having worked on the commercial side of angling for almost 30 years, I am honoured now to be able to commit myself to the sport that has brought so much to both the business and private aspects of my life,” said Akkermans.

Sportvisserij Zuidwest Nederland works on behalf of anglers and angling associations to promote the accessibility of fishing and to maintain and safeguard the sport for the future.

Akkermans started his career with Sensas in 1993 before setting up and running the Fox distribution centre in Meer, Belgium, as European Managing Director for 14 years. He moved to Svendsen Sport as head of its DAM brand in 2016 and then joined UK brand Wolf for a short time. He joined Angling Direct in October last year.

“My mantra at Angling Direct was Getting Everyone Fishing,” added Akkermans. “Now it is Keeping Everyone Fishing.”