Charleston, SC – In 2014, Huk exploded onto the fishing scene with innovative products, aggressive brand marketing, a multi-channel distribution strategy, and a team of young Under Armour defectors determined to bring a new approach to an often-stale fishing apparel market. Huk has since become the fastest growing brand in fishing, fueled by youthful anglers across the U.S. who appreciate Huk’s fresh attitude and passion and are looking for a brand that they can call their own.
Earlier this year, Goode Partners made a major investment in Huk that will provide the brand with additional fuel for growth. Goode Partners is a New York-based private equity firm that has distinguished itself with successful investments in numerous consumer brands including Supreme, Dave’s Killer Bread, and Skullcandy.
Today, Huk announces additions to its management team that will lead the brand through its next phase of growth. Todd Howard, a veteran of the apparel industry and former senior executive at Global Brands and Tommy Hilfiger will serve as president. Al Perkinson, former brand steward and marketing lead for Costa Sunglasses and Simms Fishing Products will join as executive vice president and chief marketing officer. And Lawrance “Squig” Quigley, former head of apparel design for Oakley, Local Motion, Rip Curl, and founder of Fishworks, will serve as chief of product design.
“We believe that Huk is one of the most exciting young brands in the outdoor world,” said Edwin Lewis, chairman of Huk. “We’re inviting the best, most seasoned-professionals in the apparel business to join us in taking Huk to the next level. Todd, Al and Squig are proven pros and we’re happy to place Huk in their hands and to have them lead our already strong team.”
Todd Howard, apparel industry vet who has spent the last two decades managing growth-oriented apparel brands, will bring much needed apparel industry disciplines to Huk through his leadership.
“Adding best practices in design and sourcing as well as logistics and retail strategy to the exciting Huk brand will ensure that our partners have the opportunity to maximize their growth and performance with Huk in the rapidly expanding fishing space,” said Todd Howard, president of Huk.
Al Perkinson, visionary brand marketer and ocean conservationist will lead Huk’s brand marketing and communication.
“The new energy and awareness that Huk has created in such a short amount of time is unheard-of in the fishing apparel market,” said Perkinson. “Our goal will be to turn that wave of enthusiasm into sustainable growth by continuing to fuel our customers’ passions for fishing and the outdoors. Huk is the most exciting young brand in our industry, and I’m looking forward to helping it reach its significant potential.”
Lawrance “Squig” Quigley, surfing and fishing apparel design innovator, industry veteran and life-long west coast waterman will lead Huk’s product design from the new Huk design center located in San Clemente, Calif.
“I’m stoked to help Huk bring a new and fresh look to fishing apparel with intuitive design, sport appropriate fit and performance that blows your mind,” said Squig. “I love surfing, fishing and anything to do with the ocean, so becoming the captain of the design team for one of the fastest growing brands on the water is a dream come true.”