Handleman Company (HDL), a category manager and distributor of prerecorded music and video game hardware, to the North American and UK retail markets, announced today that John W. Beeder has been retained as President and Chief Operating Officer.
He comes to Handleman with over 23 years of management and executive experience from Hallmark Cards, Inc. Beeder was senior Vice President, General Manager of Greeting Cards, Hallmarks largest division.
Stephen Strome, Handleman Company's Chairman and Chief Executive Officer said, "We are pleased to welcome John Beeder to Handleman Company. He has extensive experience in managing relationships with national retailers, some of which are currently Handleman Company customers. In addition, his experience includes successfully launching new products and brands, directing cost management initiatives and integrating acquisitions into Hallmark's core business. He has demonstrated an ability to execute innovative and creative solutions in a highly competitive market. John will play a key role in maximizing the opportunities of recent acquisitions, and driving the Company's long-term growth strategy of leveraging core competencies to expand product categories and customers."
Beeder added, "The opportunities ahead for Handleman Company are tremendous, as the Company continues to expand its core competencies, which are used by some of the world's leading retailers. I have managed distribution and category management for a product category that included thousands of items, similar in scope to music product. I am excited and honored to be part of the leadership of this fine Company as it continues to diversify and grow."
The interesting about this is that Handleman is one of those companies that are feeling tremendous pressure from new media. With downloads gradually becoming the tool of choice in music and growing in games, it will be interesting to see what this company, and others like it do to fend off this inevitable, growing trend.
Comment Preview