Angus Council looking for a new golfing partner

A deadlock in trading negotiations has forced Angus Council to find a new golf business partner in China, it has emerged.

By Richard Watt
Published in the Courier : 15.12.11
Published online : 15.12.11 @ 02.31pm

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Berrytex, now trading as Pro Simon, had signed a deal with the council in March 2009, granting free rights to use the Carnoustie Country logo on branded clothing and items.

The original deal was due to end in December last year, but the agreement was continued until the end of this month.

However, in a document only just made available, the council said Pro Simon had decided to withdraw from the trading relationship, after making around £790,000 from the venture.

Correspondence from the firm's major shareholder in June stated that a board change led to the decision to ''stop this collaboration''.

He wrote: ''Please believe me that this is the most difficult decision we have made after (investing) so much money and (spending) so much time on it.''

Legal correspondence a week later said the agreement had to end due to ''adjustment of our marketing strategy and sales pressure.''

It added: ''According to common commercial practice we will be utilising a grace period of six to 12 months for handling of current Carnoustie Country inventory, and minimising any negative impacts to the brand.''

Pro Simon had permission to use the Carnoustie Country brand for free until this month, allowing for a two-year period in which to market its clothing.

Deputy Angus Council leader Ian Mackintosh and the head of economic development, David Valentine, met three of the firm's directors during that month's official council visit, in the hope of persuading them to further the agreement.

While this was declined, Pro Simon agreed to cooperate should the council be able to find another to take the brand over.

Continued...