Filson taps former CEO of Woorich as chief executive
Filson has named the sixth chief executive officer in its 124-year history.
The Seattle-based outdoor outfitter named Paolo Corinaldesi as CEO, effective immediately. Most recently, he served as global strategist with WP Lavori, an international apparel brand licensee, distributor and retail group that invested in Filson last year, acquiring 10% of the company.
Prior to WP Lavori, Corinaldesi was CEO of Woolrich International, where he managed the merger of the brand's U.S. and European business, led the exploration of international partnerships and oversaw the development of the brand's retail sales network.
"After Woolrich, I thought that my time as an executive was over, but when the opportunity to join Filson came along, I couldn't say 'no,'" said Corinaldesi. "Filson has a very special history and holds a unique place in today's market. I am excited to join this great team and continue to grow the brand through new product innovations, expanding our retail footprint and building our international presence."
Detroit-based Bedrock Manufacturing Company is the parent company of Filson, which was founded in 1897 to outfit customers headed to the Klondike Gold Rush. Bedrock founder Tom Kartsotis will continue to oversee Filson and work alongside Corinaldesi and Alex Carleton, Filson’s chief creative officer, to build the business. Corinaldesi's focus will be on operations, finance and sales while Carleton will manage brand marketing, product and merchandising.
In 2021, Filson plans to invest in e-commerce and retail locations, reported WWD, with new customer acquisition earmarked as a priority. The brand also expects to focus on international expansion and new product offerings, including the recently introduced, sewn in the U.S. denim collection.
"Filson's long-standing history and reputation for reliability are testaments to our commitment to our customers," said Carleton. “Paolo shares those values, and with his leadership and extensive retail experience, he will drive business growth and continue to build on Filson's legacy."