GERMAN-BASED tackle manufacturer and distributor Cormoran has announced a new sales organisation for the UK, headed up by recently-retired Daiwa Sports sales and marketing director John Middleton.

John will be responsible for the complete sales and marketing operation of the Cormoran brand in the UK domestic market.

Cormoran president Dieter Willenbruch said: “We are delighted to have negotiated a deal to secure the services of such an experienced sales and marketing professional. He has a wealth of experience in the tackle industry gained over a period of 27 years working with such a high profile brand as Daiwa.

“It is out committed intention to promote and increase the profile of the Cormoran brand in the UK market. We are currently working on a new range of products that will be launched at our trade shows to be held in the UK later this year. These products will, for the first time, be developed with the UK anglers’ requirements as a prime objective.”

John Middleton said: “I am delighted to be involved in the start-up of this exciting new venture. When I received the telephone call from Dieter several weeks ago, little did I realise that my ‘early retirement’ from the front line of the industry would be so abruptly halted. That said, I could not refuse the challenge.

“This new venture will sit comfortably alongside our new fishery business. My main role in the new company will be to work with my friends in Germany on product development projects and the sales and marketing of the Cormoran brand in the UK.”

The new agency was due to start operating on July 1 and further announcements regarding sales agents, after service and warranty agreements are expected to follow shortly.

* Tackle Trade World