Newport, RI (PRWEB) August 31, 2010
Wild Things, LLC, the maker of sophisticated technical outerwear for the US Military, Law Enforcement and Consumer markets, announces that Edward Schmults has joined Wild Things as CEO and member of the Board of Directors. Most recently, Mr. Schmults served as Chief Executive Officer of FAO Schwarz, a premier retailer of toys and luxury items for children. Mr. Schmults brings to this position his considerable background in branded consumer products and direct-to-consumer business in the US, Europe, and Asia, with senior roles in such companies as Patagonia, Moonstone, and RedEnvelope.
“We are thrilled to have Ed join the Wild Things team. He brings a wealth of experience in outdoor and consumer products through his background at Patagonia, Moonstone and REI. He has rock solid ethics and has quickly set the company on a solid, and profitable, growth plan,” said James M. Gould, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Wild Things and Managing General Partner of The Walnut Group, a private equity fund and the majority owner of Wild Things, LLC.
Mr. Schmults began working at Wild Things as part-time CEO in June of 2009 and joined full-time in November. Ed has led the company at a rapid pace. In the last twelve months Wild Things has hired additional product design, development and production personnel, re-branded the company, created a new division, WT Tactical, to target the military and law enforcement communities, re-launched the website, implemented a new ERP system and has begun to explore international and brand licensing opportunities.
“Wild Things is a cool company with a rich heritage,” said Ed. “Many of the best climbers in the world have worn Wild Things products, and the company’s reputation for well designed, durable, lightweight product has gained the attention of our country’s warfighters. I was attracted by the possibilities to make world-class product in the US for our country’s soldiers and law enforcement personnel and to do some new things in the consumer market. Working in Newport, RI isn’t too bad either.”
Founded in 1981, Wild Things has earned a reputation for sophisticated, tough, lightweight technical outerwear, alpine-style backpacks, haul-bags, and innovative tactical clothing. Chosen for the world’s most demanding conditions by the world’s most demanding users, Wild Things, LLC manufacture its products in the USA under two divisions — Wild Things for the outdoor enthusiast and WT Tactical for the unique needs of the military and law enforcement communities. In addition to the design studio and executive offices located in Newport, Rhode Island, Wild Things operates a retail store and second design studio in North Conway, New Hampshire. Wild Things products are available online at http://www.wildthingsgear.com, the North Conway retail store, and from select distributors.
For more information contact:
Michael Boardman
Brand Manager
+1 (401)848-9453 x117
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