Business news : Navico announces direct distribution in NZ

Navico, the world leader in recreational marine electronics, has announced key changes in the distribution strategy of the Lowrance, Simrad and B&G brands in the New Zealand market.

Navico will assume direct distribution for all three brands in New Zealand where it will develop existing and new sales channels to build brand awareness and grow market share.

The current distributors for the brands, Electronic Navigation (Lowrance) and Advance Trident (Simrad and B&G), will continue as Authorised Resellers. COO of Navico APAC, John Scott thanked both companies for their loyalty and commitment to the brands over the years.

'We have enjoyed successful working relationships with both Electronic Navigation and Advance Trident in New Zealand. They have worked tirelessly to build the brand awareness in the market and establish powerful dealer networks. We look forward to working with them in the future in their new capacity.'

Mr Scott also said that the decision to direct distribute was based on a number of important factors.

'Navico is already in a good position to assume direct distribution. In addition to an established Warehouse and Distribution centre in Sydney, Navico currently employs in excess of seventy (70) Engineers, Service, Marketing, Sales and Support Staff in its Auckland office.

Direct Distribution in New Zealand will enable Navico to take advantage of our established infrastructure and use it to bring us closer to our customers. This means that going forward dealers, retailers and boat builders will benefit from a direct sales and support relationship with Navico.'

Officially, Navico will assume direct distribution of the Lowrance brand 1st April 2013 and the Simrad and B&G brands 1st May 2013.

A Dealer Roadshow is planned for late March 2013 where new and existing Lowrance, Simrad and B&G dealers and boat builders will have a chance to meet the Navico team and find out how the changes will affect them.

In the meantime, any enquiries from existing or potential new dealers can be directed to the Navico team on 0-9-925 4588 or plcorders@navico.com.

For more information on Navico, or its entire line of Lowrance, Simrad Yachting and B&G marine electronics, please visit www.navico.com

by Estelle Baldry - Navico