September 18, 2006 – After nearly a decade distributing the Madshus brand in the American marketplace, Alpina Sports and K2 have mutually terminated Alpina’s US distribution effective September 1, 2006.

According to Frank Thibodeau, president of Alpina Sports, “K2 has received copies of Alpina’s pre-season bookings for all Madshus products. Dealers will receive the same discounts and other terms on their orders and the only difference is that the shipments of all Madshus products will come from K2, not Alpina. Naturally we wish the timing could have been different, but once the separation was discussed it became apparent that the sooner we both made the transition the better for everyone involved.”

According to Robert Marcovitch, president of K2 Sports, “Although Madshus was purchased by K2 in December 1988, it has operated somewhat autonomously from a brand perspective. The recent acquisition of Karhu nordic and tele for the North American market, combined with our Tubbs, Atlas, Little Bear and Powder Ridge snowshoe brands, created the potential for a significant portfolio of products and brands in the outdoor retail world.”

Marcovitch went on to say, “We appreciate the efforts of the Alpina Sports USA team for their stewardship of the Madshus brand in this country. On the occasion of Madshus’ 100 year anniversary, K2 Sports is excited to be assuming responsibility for the distribution of Madshus XC skis and related products in North America. As with the other brands in the K2 Sports brand portfolio, we know that the success of our retailers and the satisfaction of the end users is the key to our future success.”