AFTCO announced today that it has hired Robby Gant as tackle brand manager. Gant will oversee all new product development, sales, and tackle operations for the 60-plus-year old company.
Gant, who has more than 20 years of experience in the industry, previously served as Shimano's West Coast regional sales manager, senior sales manager and senior product manager.
"We're extremely excited to have Robby join our family," said AFTCO president Casey Shedd. "Robby has been directly responsible for some of the fishing industry’s most notable products. His product development skill set will enable AFTCO to meet the demands of serious saltwater and freshwater anglers alike."
Shedd believes there’s a closely linked value system between Gant and the company.
"Today it seems to be all about private equity acquiring a suite of brands. They pump money into marketing with little long-term product consideration and ultimately flip the brands for someone else to do the same. That's not us.
"Moreover, I firmly believe the market isn't calling for more cheaply sourced product with a manufacturer's logo slapped on it. Robby is aligned with that vision and a whole lot more."
