Fender Subsidiary Takes Over Manufacturing of Jackson/Charvel Instruments
October 30, 2002
Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC)
announced today the creation of a new manufacturing subsidiary, to be called
Jackson/Charvel Manufacturing, Inc. Consequently, Jackson/Charvel
Manufacturing, Inc. has signed a deal to purchase specific assets of the
Jackson/Charvel Guitar Company, which was a division of Akai Musical
Instruments Corporation (AMIC). The acquisition, effective as of October
25, 2002, will include all existing inventory of products and trademarks
relating to Jackson and Charvel.
With the Fender and Squier brand names, FMIC has
continually sought to develop diverse and innovative products. With the
addition of Jackson/Charvel Manufacturing, Inc. into the Fender fold, the
company has the opportunity to produce and distribute new products, and to
welcome a core consumer base geared more towards heavy metal and hard rock
styles.
Says Bill Schultz, Chairman and CEO of FMIC, "Throughout our history, we've
embraced musicians of all styles by offering products to suit their needs.
Jackson and Charvel products appeal to musicians that are not traditional
'Fender' players, but who want a quality instrument made by people who know
what their needs are. We are musicians, we know guitars, and we know how to
get them to the guitarists of the world."
"Both the Jackson and Charvel product lines consist of quality instruments
with strong brand recognition and a rightful place in musical instrument
history," adds Schultz. "Many innovative product features and cutting edge
artists are associated with these fine instruments, and with the creation of
Jackson/Charvel Manufacturing, Inc., we are committed to exceeding their
expectations in the areas of quality, service and market support."
Jackson/Charvel Manufacturing, Inc. will immediately begin to produce
Jackson and Charvel products utilizing its existing production facility in
Ontario, California for all American-made Jackson and Charvel guitars, as
well as its custom orders. Additionally, Jackson/Charvel Manufacturing,
Inc. will continue to produce guitars with its overseas manufacturing
partners.
FMIC will then sell and distribute the products through a new inside
telesales and field sales department under the direction of Jeff Cary, Vice
President of Specialty Sales, and will utilize its existing network of
global distributors and direct sales offices. AMIC product manager, Donnie
Wade, will join Fender and will head up the marketing efforts.
"This is great news for fans of Jackson and Charvel," says Marketing
Manager, Donnie Wade. "The guitars will remain with one of the most
prestigious American manufacturers ever, one that is a progressive company
and that will maintain the integrity that Jackson and Charvel has built
throughout its years."
Jackson and Charvel's existing retailers, which number around 400 in the
United States, will still be able to carry the products and will be
contacted directly by FMIC to ensure a trouble-free change over. For more information, visit their web site at www.jacksonguitars.com. |
