Osprey Packs has completed the acquisition of Osprey Europe, the U.K.-based subsidiary that was set up by Rob Wylie in 2003. The American brand of backpacks has grown a lot in Europe since then, with a presence in more than 30 countries, claiming the leadership in the sector. Wylie has announced that he will leave the business by the end of March after 16 years at its helm, passing the reins to Jonathan Petty, who will be promoted from marketing director to managing director for Europe. Petty joined the company two years ago after more than 20 years in the outdoor industry, working in commercial roles for Patagonia, Salomon and Montane. Also, Tom Entwistle, sales director of Osprey Europe, is taking a new role as vice president of sales and product for Europe, the Middle East and Africa. The sales team has been further strengthened with the appointment of a new head of sales, Luke Barton, who held senior sales positions at The North Face and Wolverine Worldwide. Meanwhile, Christoph Schwer has become sales manager for Germany after working for Columbia for eight years.

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