Respect Your Universe, Inc. (TSXV: RYU) (OTCBB: RYUN), http://www.ryu.com/, is pleased to announce that they have appointed Senior Retail Industry Executive David Campisi to Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of RYU. Joining the RYU Board of Directors in March of 2012, Mr. Campisi was the former Chairman, President and CEO of The Sports Authority from 2004-2011 and brings more than 30 years of visionary experience in the retail industry for soft and hard goods, as well as specialty and mass production, to RYU.
During his time as CEO at The Sports Authority, Mr. Campisi was responsible for implementing new strategic imperatives, bringing $100 million in e-Commerce business in-house, negotiating long-term multi-million dollar deals to acquire naming rights for the Bronco’s stadium in Denver, and establishing two major foundations for the Sports Authority, including the “Sports Authority Foundation” and “Pass the Good Foundation.”
“We are thrilled about David Campisi becoming the new Chairman and CEO of RYU,” said Kristian Andresen, previously residing Chairman of RYU. “With his extensive expertise, experience and knowledge in the retail industry, he will help further accelerate and execute the growth of RYU in the direction we are quickly moving in.”
Prior to joining RYU, Mr. Campisi also served as the Executive Vice President at KOHL’S as GMM Women’s Apparel, Accessories, Intimates and Cosmetics, the Senior Vice President for Fred Meyer, Inc., and Director of Apparel, Home and Electronics, GMM Apparel and Vice President of DMM Women’s Apparel and the Vice President of Meier & Frank for DMM Women’s Apparel.
“I’m very excited about joining RYU, there’s something very special happening here. The premium high quality training product, with a great story, and has an edge that’s different from all the players in the space. I look forward to working with the team at RYU, and making a significant contribution on building our business together.” said David Campisi.
Our former Chief Executive Officer Christopher Martens resigned on August 13, 2012. In connection with his resignation, the Company agreed to pay Mr. Martens four months salary as severance.
Founded on the principles of respect, strength, honor and sustainability, and influenced by the dedication of the athlete to the ancient sport of Martial Arts, RYU’s innovative premium apparel and product for both performance and lifestyle was created to inspire all athletes to achieve greatness. By
producing products that are environmentally, and ethically, sound, all of RYU’s apparel and products are comprised of up to 90% organic and recycled materials utilizing some of the best yarn and fabric suppliers in the world.
Through the creation of innovative apparel and products that have less of an impact on the environment, RYU’s fabrics and technologies boast the attributes of Moisture Control Fabric (AIR Weave), Thermal Control Fabric (FIRE Weave), Weather Resistant Fabric (WIND Weave) and Eco-Friendly Fabric (TERRA Weave). RYU’s authenticity in its apparel and products is also reflected in the design of each item containing one or more symbols from ancient Samurai iconography.
RYU is an official sponsor of the UFC and will be visible in various elements throughout the UFC events in 2012 including logo displays and live announcements during bouts along with television promotions and placement on the UFC website including their web store.
