Aamp Buys American Internat’l, Hires Wiseman

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AAMP of America, Inc. announced it completed the acquisition of American International – a California-based maker of car audio installation kits and accessories.

Ken Wiseman joins Phoenix Gold
Ken Wiseman joins Phoenix Gold

Additionally, the company announced it hired Ken Wiseman, formerly of Elettromedia-USA (maker of Hertz and Audison high end brands) as Director of Sales of the Phoenix Gold brand of amps, speakers and subs.

Wiseman’s role will be to develop new markets and sales opportunities.  He will also be tasked with training, reinforcing relationships with existing customers, and developing sales programs, said Aamp.

Wiseman spent 6 years at Elettromedia-USA where he was Director of Sales & Marketing.  Prior to that, he served at Eclipse as a regional and national sales manager.  He also spent 10 years with Sony Mobile as a key account sales manager.

American International car kit
Car kit from American International, now owned by Aamp of America.

As for American International, Aamp said it acquired the company in part for its manufacturing capability and expertise in molded plastic   installation accessories.

Aamp CEO Ron Freeman, said, “As a US-based manufacturer of innovative car audio installation products, American International has expertise that will be invaluable in creating future solutions for the 12-volt industry.”

American International products range from car stereo installation kits to wire harnesses and antenna accessories, and are sold worldwide to car audio professional shops.   American International will continue to operate all aspects of sales and manufacturing out of its Camarillo, California facility.

As for Phoenix Gold Mobile, it was acquired by Aamp in 2009 and was positioned as a protected brand for independent specialists in 2010.

Wiseman said, “Phoenix Gold is introducing some outstanding new products at this year’s CES, and I couldn’t be joining the team at a better time. In the 80s and 90s, Phoenix Gold had a reputation as an industry mainstay. I think we’re on the right track with products, and with the proper sales programs and distribution….”

Aamp of America is a portfolio company of Audax Group,  which has offices in Boston and New York.

Aamp now owns  brands including Stinger, Phoenix Gold, iSimple, Pacific Accessory Corporation, Sound Quest and Best Kits & Harnesses as well as Amercian International.   Also, Aamp, recently merged 2 car audio accessories makers,  Peripheral Electronics and Pacific Accessory Corporation and it purchased Select Distributors Inc. (Select Products).  It now has 6 US facilities.

Source: Aamp of America

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