Material Handling and Storage Racks
Thule, Inc., Partners with World Strongmen to Launch Professional Line at Joe's Sports, Outdoor & More Grand Opening Event in Bellevue, WA
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BELLEVUE, Wash. and SEYMOUR, Conn., April 5 /- Thule, Inc., the world's leading manufacturer of premium load carriers for cars, has partnered with the World's Strongest Man Super Series to launch its Professional line of contractor-grade rack systems and accessories today during the Grand Opening Event of Joe's Sports, Outdoor & More in Bellevue, Washington (formerly the location of Larry's Market).
"The World's Strongest Man Super Series is the ideal partner for us because it represents the core attributes of the Thule brand - unmatched strength, endurance and durability," said TJ Hanson, vice president of marketing for Thule, Inc. "Joe's Sports, Outdoor & More is one of our largest retailer partners, and we're honored to be a part of the new store opening events in Bellevue and Kirkland," added Hanson.
Retail targets for the Professional line in 2007 include automotive accessories aftermarket outlets, paint and ladder stores. In 2008, Thule hopes to further expand the line's distribution to include fleet vehicle outfitters and building supply stores.
Throughout the next several months, competitors in the World's Strongest Man Super Series - the most challenging competition in strength athletics - will put the Professional line to the test through various challenges such as dropping 400-pound boulders on the overhead rack systems.
"What better way to demonstrate to consumers that no other competing rack system can withstand such incredible strength," added Hanson.
Managing Director for World Class Events/World's Strongest Man Super Series, Jesper Albansson, says, "We are delighted to align ourselves with such a reputable, premium brand such as Thule, and we're having a great time 'testing' the company's products at our competitions."
Designed for the demanding needs of trade professionals, the Professional line features great looking, versatile base rack systems and innovative accessories to provide efficient and convenient transportation solutions for ladders, conduit, lumber and other building materials.
Innovations proprietary to Thule include:
o A Ladder Lift System - which helps to reduce load height 40" by
offering an easy to reach ladder loading system for the side of the vehicle;
o Awning - provides excellent protection for contractors and their
equipment under extreme weather conditions.
Director for the Thule Professional Line, Kevin Harris, says, "The contractor rack market represents tremendous opportunity for Thule. Innovative products combined with a targeted distribution strategy will ensure our success in securing a category leadership position."
For more information on the Thule Professional line, visit www.thulepro.com/.
About Thule
Thule Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary within the Thule Group. It is the leading U.S. manufacturer of car rack products, with production sites in Seymour, Connecticut and Chicago, Illinois. Thule's product line features multi-purpose roof racks, roof top boxes, rear mount racks, and accessories for outdoor equipment including bikes, skis, snowboards, kayaks, canoes, and surfboards. For more information visit www.thule.com/.
Website: www.thule.com
www.thulepro.com
Source: Thule, Inc.
