Black Diamond Signs New Korean Distributor

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd., a global leader in climbing and backcountry gear, has retained a new Korean distributor. Patagonia Korea, a Korean distribution agent owned and operated by Mr. Chun, one of Korea’s foremost climbers, will begin working with Black Diamond on March 1, 2006.

Peter Metcalf, CEO Black Diamond, anticipates a successful partnership. “Black Diamond is dynamic, but as we grow, we are holding fast to the core qualities and passions that make us a unique brand. Mr. Chun and Patagonia Korea offer a heritage that, like Black Diamond’s, is strongly rooted in climbing and skiing. Our similar perspectives and mutual respect ensure that this will be a lasting partnership.”

A climber and mountaineer, Mr. Chun understands the importance and necessity of Black Diamond climbing and skiing gear on both the business and personal levels. He originally established Patagonia Korea to distribute Patagonia’s apparel in his country, and offers familiarity with the Korean marketplace as well as its ardent outdoor community. Patagonia Korea will distribute Black Diamond’s entire line of rock climbing and backcountry skiing products, including the new C3 Camalots, AvaLung packs and 01 telemark bindings.

Black Diamond Equipment Ltd. is an employee-owned manufacturer of equipment for rock climbing, alpinism and backcountry skiing. By consistently building innovative products and actively preserving the mountain environment, Black Diamond has assumed a leadership role in the international outdoor community. For more information on Black Diamond and the company’s family of brands, including Beal Ropes and Fritschi Swiss, visit www.blackdiamondequipment.com.