Nissan & Columbia Sportswear Join Forces to Deliver Consumer Package in 2006
Limited-Production Vehicles Come With Columbia Selkirk(TM) Parka
PORTLAND, Ore., Jan. 25 -- Columbia Sportswear Company and Nissan Europe SAS announced today a joint branding effort aimed at building brand awareness throughout Europe.
The two companies have joined forces to launch the Nissan X-TRAIL Columbia Edition. A series of events, marketing promotions, and advertising will promote the X-TRAIL across 21 countries from January 2006.
"The X-TRAIL Columbia perfectly embodies what both brands value the most; robustness and advanced technology, the love of the outdoors and the true spirit of adventure," said Brian Carolin, Nissan Europe Senior Vice President of Sales and Marketing.
"We're very pleased with this venture with Nissan. This collaboration will complement our marketing efforts as we work to build brand awareness across Europe and our joint efforts will help to expose each brand to new and different audiences," said Paul Gils, Europe General Manager, Columbia Sportswear. "Teaming up with Nissan is a great fit for us since we share common philosophies and the reputation for producing high quality products for outdoor enthusiasts."
The 2006 Nissan X-TRAIL Columbia is available with a unique package of high-value features including a sunroof, full body colour, electric folding mirrors, privacy glass, auto air-conditioning, ESP+, advanced DVD based navigation system, heated and power seats with leather trim, and 17" alloy wheels. The features make the X-TRAIL one of the best equipped models in the compact sport utility vehicle market. Additionally, all X-TRAIL Columbia models will include unique branded floor mats, door sills and prominent badge placement.
Each X-TRAIL Columbia buyer will also receive a Columbia Selkirk(TM) parka. The Selkirk(TM) parka is a rugged, seam sealed, & lightweight parka with waterproof zippers, zip-off hood, laser-cut multiple function security pockets and Radial Sleeves(TM) technology for ultimate comfort. The garment comes in black and is available, for men and women, in a variety of sizes.
About X-TRAIL
Launched in 2001, the Nissan X-TRAIL was a pioneer in the compact SUV segment in Europe and remains one of the most successful models in its league with over 210,000 having been sold.
Year-after-year, the award-winning X-TRAIL has proven popular with the critics and consumers alike. The keys to the X-TRAIL's success are easy to list: a vast range of strong, yet fuel-efficient engines; a user-friendly interior; and advanced ALL MODE 4x4 technology. Since its launch, the X-TRAIL has attracted a new breed of buyers to the Nissan brand. This unique combination of both on-road and off-road features makes the X-TRAIL the perfect choice for long journeys, off road adventure or trips around town.
Additional information on the "X-Trail Columbia" Special edition available on: www.nissan-columbia.com.
About Columbia Sportswear International
Columbia Sportswear International, Sarl is a wholly owned subsidiary of Columbia Sportswear Company. Founded in 1938, Columbia Sportswear Company is a global leader in the design, sourcing, marketing and distribution of active outdoor apparel and footwear. As one of the largest outerwear brands in the world and the leading seller of skiwear in the United States, the Company has developed an international reputation for quality, performance, functionality and value. To learn more about Columbia Sportswear please visit the Company's web site at www.columbia.com.
About Nissan Europe:
Nissan employs around 12,000 people in its European design, research and development, manufacturing, logistics, and sales and marketing operations. Last year, the company produced a total of 448,513 vehicles in its Spanish and British plants and sold 543,948 vehicles in Europe. Nissan Europe's Head Office is based in Trappes (Paris), France. To learn more about Nissan in Europe visit www.nissaneurope-newsbureau.com.
