03.10.2016
To further strengthen its position as an international auction house and to follow the company’s growth strategy, Saga Furs has established a farmer services unit in North America. Starting from November 1, Saga Furs will be collecting top quality skins from carefully selected farms in the region. In addition to better serve its growing number of auction customers that demand large and varied skin offerings, the move will give the North American farmers a better access to Saga Furs’ global marketing programs as well as open doors to many well-known fashion brands for North American mink.
“We’ve seen a solid increase for the demand for large, quality skin offerings in recent auctions which paved the way for the North American expansion”, said Julio Suarez Christiansen, Business Director, Europe and North America. “We are keen to share our expertise with local farmers, some who have been in the business for decades, and jointly build profitable, truly international business opportunities for farmers and Saga alike”, he continues.
To support the North American farmer partners the best possible way, a new team has been put in place to drive the farmer services locally.
Magnus Ljung is rejoining the Saga Furs team as Business Manager effective November 1, with the responsibility to build and lead the North American operations. He has been active in North America already this season studying the market and establishing the right contacts for Saga as a consultant. Magnus is bringing a wealth of sales and farming expertise to the role. He will report to Julio Suarez Christiansen.
Ben Smitis starting his Saga career as an Area Manager, North American Ranchers, on October 1, ensuring first class service to the North American ranchers. Ben’s decades-strong knowledge of all aspects of fur farming will be instrumental in building lasting relationships with new farmer partners in the area. Ben will be based in Salt Lake City (Utah) and he will report to Magnus Ljung.
“The new business unit is already operational and I am glad to report that the North American farmer community has welcomed Saga´s new initiative and showed strong interest in starting business relations with us”, Julio Suarez Christiansen continues.
Oct 3, 2016