"Von Zipper is a fashion forward brand centered around the alternative mindset with a focus on the eyewear, accessory and premium apparel market". Founded in 1999 as an Orange County based manufacturer of sunglasses, goggles, accessories, and soft goods, Von Zipper (or VeeZee, Inc.) became extremely popular in the local surf, wake, moto, and skate scene soon offering sponsorships to pro riders in order to create a cult-like movement.
Although its founders are unknown, the company was acquired by Billabong, Inc. in 2001 as a result of its explosive popularity and similar business model. Since its purchase, Von Zipper has proved itself in the field of extreme sports hosting such events as the VZ-Air Tahiti surfing trials at Teahupoo, J-Bay Super Heat, and prestigious Billabong Pro Jeffreys Bay and
Tahiti.
They offer their products both internationally and domestically, with products being constantly seen through "a range of high profile entertainers and personalities photographed in the Von Zipper product. Pop sensation Katy Perry was rarely seen without her VZ’s on, wearing them in one of her music videos, several fashion shows and relaxing in them in her down time. Actress Drew Barrymore and singers Rhianna, Chris Brown and Tegan from the indie rock band Tegan and Sarah were seen rocking the sunglasses as well as rapper Mickey Avalon and alt rock favourites Weezer. Von Zipper had key product placement in print, digital and film in 2009-10 with the highlight being actor Robert Downey Junior wearing the VZ Fulton Red Checker shades in the hit film Iron Man 2." 2009 ShareHolder Review.
Finally I'd like to hit a little on VZ's affiliation with the non-profit communities out there. "VonZipper continued to give back to their markets by supporting the Surfrider Foundation, having officers and membership in the Surf Industry’s Manufacturers Association, developing product for Boarding For Breast Cancer and donating the proceeds to their cause, as well as launching VZ Optical’s ‘Charity for Clarity’ program".
All that being said, I really chose this company on the basis that they provide an outstanding product. VZ has yet to lose the interest of their consumers, as can be seen in their quarterly introduction of new products in the market. As long as they keep their roots strong, you won't see this guy give up on Von Zipper.
Goal is to have a solid understanding of who/what/when/where/how the company originated.
Vince,
ReplyDeleteI really liked this post! I think you are going to find a lot of information about VZ with regards to Web 2.0 technology. Companies such as VZ, that have a focus in the skateboarding-surfing apparel and products, do most of their marketing with Web 2.0 as their market segmentation for age is around 15-30 years old. This age range receives most of their information via Web 2.0 outlets. As you mentioned in your posting, even celebrities are sporting VZ gear, which appeals to this age crowd. Overall, I think you chose a great company. Not only because you are interested in them, but also because they are going to be interesting and offer to you a lot of information along the way.
-Mark