Burton, which has used an independent sales agency model for years, made some changes to its sales force last week.
The company and three independent reps in the U.S. and Canada parted ways.
Ryan Queen in Southern California, Jeff Martino in British Columbia and Steve Smith in Atlantic Canada and their teams will no longer sell Burton or its family of brands in their respective territories.
Sasha Dietschi-Cooper, Burton SVP of Sales – North America, said in an emailed statement: “Burton Sales Management did not arrive at these decisions lightly – Ryan Queen, Jeff Martino and Steve Smith have been a part of Burton for many years, and we are grateful to each of them for their loyalty and commitment to the brand. We wish them the best of luck with their future endeavors.”
Burton declined to provide SES with any further information at this time about how sales would be handled in those territories in the future.
I asked Ryan, Jeff and Steve to comment on their time at Burton, and what might be next for them.
Ryan Queen
Southern California, Southern Nevada, Arizona, and Hawaii
“Burton and my independent sales agency have decided to part ways. This decision is mutual, and we wish for a smooth transition for our valued retailers. I’ve been involved with the Burton family of brands for nearly 18 years in one capacity or another, and I believe very strongly in the product and company. I wish Burton success through the future.
“Some of my best friendships have come from involvement with both Burton and the retailers I’ve worked closely with. I truly value the time I’ve spent working alongside these individuals and hope our paths cross again soon.
“My plans for the future are still very open. My Wooden Robots Sales Agency will continue moving forward, and in the coming months we will explore new opportunities. I look forward to seeing where the next adventure takes me! In the meantime, I am hoping for good waves. If anyone needs me, I’ll be out in the surf.”
Jeff Martino
British Columbia and Yukon region
“After 16 years working with the Burton brands, my agency is parting ways with Burton Snowboards. Burton is moving towards a new service model, which should be announced soon. In the meantime, my agency, Face Shots Ventures, Inc., will continue to represent the finest in support underwear, MyPakage, and I will remain active in the action sports industry after some well-deserved down time.
“My time with Burton has been exceptional and I am proud to have represented them for the better part of two decades. I wish them the best of success in the future. It’s been a great ride.”
Steve Smith
Atlantic Canada – Provinces of Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Newfoundland & Labrador, and Prince Edward Island.
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“What a great ride! Our team at FistFullaFives is incredibly grateful for the strong partnership we’ve built with Burton over the past 14 years. It’s been a genuine honor to represent such an iconic, industry-leading company.
“Our respectful parting of ways is a reflection of our many years of close collaboration as trusted partners. We genuinely wish Burton continued success as they take this important next step in their evolution.
“FistFullaFives.com remains highly committed to the industry-leading brands we represent and we will continue to evolve as we focus on consistently offering excellent service and support to our valued retailers across Atlantic Canada.”
