Black Diamond & Scarpa Part Ways – July 15, 2005

This just in as a press release from Backbone Media, edited for the blog:

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., manufacturer and distributor of climbing and backcountry gear, and SCARPA, an international maker and seller of mountain footwear, today announced the termination of their longtime working relationship at the end of 2005. Peter Metcalf, CEO & Co-Founder of Black Diamond explains, “Over the past eighteen years, Black Diamond together with SCARPA have brought innovation to the market and as a result have dramatically evolved the sports we serve. We are immensely proud of that.” Metcalf continues, “At the same time, the marketplace is evolving and both BD and SCARPA realize the partnership that led to our past success is not the best path for the future. Thus, we agreed to terminate amicably.”

Andrea Parisotto, the new President of SCARPA North America, Inc., comments, “We believe in the North American market and hope to better recognize and serve their specific demands. SCARPA will open SCARPA North America Inc. in Boulder, Colorado effective immediately.” Chris Clark has been chosen as Sales and Marketing Manager for SCARPA NA. Clark has extensive experience, including retail work at Neptune Mountaineering in Boulder and field and consulting experience with Black Diamond and Backcountry Access.

Lou’s comments: I heard a rumor that BD was going to have their own line of boots made in Europe or China! If that happens it’ll add some interest to a part of the industry that’s been a bit ho-hum of late. I can’t think of better guy than Chris Clark to be working for Scarpa NA. Chris is an excellent skier and alpinist, and really knows gear. But wonder upon wonder, Chris as 9-to5? I’ll have to call him and give him some grief — and congratulations!