Burton President Laurent Potdevin Promoted To CEO

Burton’s President Laurent Potdevin will assume the title of President and CEO, formalizing his role overseeing all Burton brands and shared services on a global level including Burton Snowboards, Gravis, R.E.D., ANON, Analog and The Program. Since Jake Burton Carpenter founded the company in 1977, he has been the sole CEO.

“I couldn't be more stoked about this promotion for Laurent,” says Jake. “Laurent has worked hard and been tough, but fair in his leadership. He has made us all better at what we do. I have been here close to 30 years, and in that time I have never felt that someone was deserving of the CEO title until now.”

Oakley Appoints Scott Olivet CEO

Oakley, Inc. (NYSE:OO) announced the appointment of Scott Olivet as chief executive officer and director effective October 10, 2005. Until such date, he will serve part-time in an advisory capacity as an employee of the company. Mr. Olivet will succeed Oakley, Inc. founder, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer Jim Jannard who will continue as chairman of the board of directors.

“We are extremely excited with the appointment of Scott Olivet as the new CEO and leader of Oakley’s unique blend of ‘science meets sculpture’ philosophy,” said Jannard. “Scott brings a broad base of exceptional business acumen including a well-demonstrated record of driving growth and profitability, strategic intuition, product development and retail experience that will strengthen and grow the Oakley brand.”

Surfrider Foundation Takes Trash From The Beach And Mounts It On Two Street Billboards

Surfrider Foundation is showcased on two billboards that were donated through Viacom by organizing two beach clean ups to draw attention to our beaches and coastal environment by exhibiting actual California beach trash on billboards in an unprecedented multi-dimensional display.

World-class advertising agency Saatchi & Saatchi, Los Angeles, CA, helped turn the trash into garbage advertising by showcasing the actual garbage that was collected on the beach on the billboard in a 3-D effect with the intent to alarm people by displaying just how much trash can be collected in one day.

Quiksilver Exceeds 95% Ownership of Rossignol

Quiksilver, Inc. announced that it now owns directly or indirectly over 95% of Rossignol, with over 96% of the voting rights, and has initiated the mandatory squeeze out to acquire the remaining shares. Quiksilver had launched a second tender offer period in July that settled today, resulting in the acquisition of enough shares to push its ownership over the 95% threshold. The Company anticipates completing the acquisition of all remaining shares of Rossignol near the end of September 2005.

Ogio Names Andy Bell VP of Promotions

As OGIO’s motocross team manager, Andy Bell has united some of the nations’ top freestyle and motocross riders to create Team OGIO. Effective today, the 2001 Canadian Freestyle Motocross Champ will take the helm as OGIO’s Vice President of Promotions.

In his new position, Bell will continue partnering with industry leaders to help support the athletes and the sports that OGIO so passionately promotes.

$400,000 Raised at Waterman's Weekend

The Surf Industry Manufacturers Association (SIMA) Environmental Fund raised $400,000 during the 16th annual Waterman's Weekend environmental fundraiser, August 26-27, 2005, at The St. Regis Resort & Spa in Dana Point, Calif. The proceeds raised will be distributed in the form of grants to 10 environmental organizations dedicated to protecting and preserving the ocean environment through programs designed to reduce urban runoff pollution, protect fabled surf breaks, conserve sensitive coastal areas and to educate young people about ocean pollution prevention and conservation.