Ernie Ball Inc. — the parent company of Ernie Ball, manufacturer of guitar strings, musical instrument accessories and volume pedals; Ernie Ball Music Man, a manufacturer of American-made guitars and basses; and Sterling by Music Man, the company’s export line of music instruments — has appointed Eko Music Group S.P.A. of Montelupone, Italy, as its exclusive Italian distributor, effective Jan. 1.
“Ernie Ball, Music Man and Sterling by Music Man have a rich history of developing products that have consistently redefined performance capabilities for players, and our distributors play a major part in getting our products to market and ultimately in the hands of musicians,” said Brian Ball. “As part of our long-term strategic business plan, we are committed to discovering and working with innovative, forward thinking partners in the rapidly evolving retail landscape who have strong ties to the local market and reinvent the traditional distributor model. Eko has a reputation of providing unparalleled service and support, paired with strong marketing vision and brand strategy to ensure the growth of our business in their territory.”
Added Stelvio Lorenzetti, CEO of Eko Music Group: “We are honored that one of the world’s leading groups in music instruments has entrusted the distribution of its products to Eko Music Group. Ernie Ball and Music Man are prestigious brands, known and appreciated by guitarists; Eko Music Group, the leader in distribution of musical instruments in Italy, knows this market and will enthusiastically help Ernie Ball with its growth and expansion plan.”