Fender Names Edward ‘Bud’ Cole as CEO
Fender Musical Instruments Corporation (FMIC) has announced that its Board of Directors has appointed Edward “Bud” Cole as chief executive officer and member of the FMIC Board of Directors. Cole will serve as CEO-Designate effective January 19, 2026, and will officially assume the CEO role on February 16, 2026. He succeeds Andy Mooney, who will retire from the company following a decade of transformative growth and innovation.
Cole currently serves as president of Fender Asia Pacific (APAC) and brings a multi-decade global career across consumer, lifestyle, luxury, and FMCG brands to the role. During his decade-long tenure at FMIC, Cole has shaped some of the company’s most significant growth initiatives, leading the expansion of Fender’s business across 14 countries in the APAC region.
A bilingual English/Japanese speaker and seasoned global operator, Cole has played a pivotal role in strengthening Fender’s presence worldwide, including launching Fender’s APAC headquarters in Tokyo and establishing full regional commercial and operational capabilities; building robust direct-to-dealer operations in Australia, resulting in a significant increase in efficiency, brand control, and distribution performance; and expanding Fender into mainland China and Korea, including developing direct-to-consumer (DTC) capability through e-commerce and driving long-term growth strategies across the region.
He also spearheaded the creation of the world’s first Fender Flagship retail experience in Harajuku, Tokyo, redefining Fender’s brick-and-mortar retail presence and consumer immersion, and developed a robust artist ecosystem across the APAC region, driving successful product innovation, including multiple Made-in-Japan launches that became standout global performers and strengthened Fender’s cultural influence and credibility throughout the region.
Before joining FMIC, Cole held senior leadership roles across several global lifestyle, luxury, and consumer brands — including Pernod Ricard, LVMH, QVC, and Ralph Lauren — where he led commercial expansion, brand development, and regional strategy across international markets. A visionary, who has conducted business in more than 60 countries, Cole’s global perspective has been shaped by a multi-decade career building and managing world-class brands at scale.
“Bud has been one of the most impactful leaders within our organization,” Mark Fukunaga, executive chairman of the FMIC Board. “He has a deep understanding of the Fender brand, our global players, and the commercial and operational foundation required to propel us into the future. His track record of building teams, expanding markets, and elevating Fender’s presence around the world makes him uniquely qualified to lead the next chapter of growth. On behalf of the Board, I also want to thank Andy Mooney for his leadership over the past decade and for the significant contributions he has made to the company.”
Since joining Fender in 2015, CEO Andy Mooney has more than doubled the size of the company and extended Fender’s worldwide leadership in the Musical Instruments category. Mooney championed product and marketing innovation at Fender and led the company’s successful entry into subscription based digital software.
“Leading Fender has been a highlight of my career,” said Andy Mooney. “I’m deeply grateful for the creativity and commitment of the Fender teams around the world and proud of what we’ve accomplished. I’m excited to pass the baton on to Bud and confident that under his leadership, Fender will continue to inspire players for generations to come.”
A lifelong musician, Cole bought his first electric guitar — a Fender Made-in-Japan 1969 Thinline® Telecaster® reissue — as a teenager and still plays it today. His personal connection to Fender’s legacy and to the player community continues to shape his approach to leadership.
“To lead Fender is the honor of a lifetime,” said Edward “Bud” Cole. “This brand has been a part of my life since childhood, and I’m committed to ensuring Fender continues to empower players everywhere, from beginners picking up their first guitar to the artists shaping the sound of today and tomorrow. Together with our global teams, partners, and loyal community of players, we will write the next era of Fender’s history.”
Cole’s appointment marks the beginning of a new chapter for Fender as the company continues to expand its global footprint, deepen its commitment to players, and shape the future of music worldwide.
Gibson Gives Achieves Record-Breaking Year of Impact
Gibson, together with its philanthropic division Gibson Gives, celebrates a historic year of giving in 2025. This milestone underscores their unwavering commitment to expanding global access to music through education, health, and wellness programs, as well as initiatives that empower and inspire youth.
“The impact Gibson Gives has made this year is nothing short of extraordinary” says Erica Krusen, global executive director of Gibson Gives. “This year proved that when music meets purpose, the results are powerful. Thanks to the generosity of our artists, partners, and supporters, we expanded our reach, deepened our impact, and turned compassion into action, using music as a catalyst for lasting positive change around the world.”
In 2025 alone, Gibson Gives donated 2,445 guitars, bringing the total to more than 16,000 guitars gifted since the foundation’s inception. The organization enabled over $5.3 million+ in funding for key organizations through product donations and meaningful giving, with a retail value of $2,489,541 in donated products this year. Additionally, Gibson Gives awarded more than $401,000 in cash grants to partner organizations and assisted 301 organizations globally.
Scholarship support also grew significantly, with 27 Gibson Gives scholarships totaling $139,000. These continued efforts reflect Gibson Gives’ commitment to advancing music education and supporting musicians worldwide.
Hagstrom Guitars Announces Relaunch in the U.S. Market Under New Distribution Leadership-MMS Music
Hagstrom Guitars, the iconic Swedish guitar brand known for its rich legacy, innovative designs, and devoted artist following, is officially relaunching in the United States under new distribution leadership.
With a celebrated legacy of crafting instruments played by legends including Elvis Presley, Jimi Hendrix, David Bowie, Kurt Cobain and Pat Smear, Hagstrom is poised to captivate a new generation of American musicians with its unique blend of heritage, innovation, and unparalleled playability.
After years of anticipation from U.S. retailers, collectors, and players, the brand is now positioned to once again become a leading name in American musical instrument stores.
The new U.S. distribution company MMS Music is being spearheaded by Michael Mascellaro, a veteran in the musical instrument industry with over 25 years of international experience. “We’re thrilled to reintroduce Hagstrom to the United States,” said Michael Mascellaro. “Hagstrom has an undeniable legacy—its designs are unique, its build quality is unmatched, and its artist roster is a testament to its staying power. I’ve worked across the global MI industry for more than two decades, and it’s truly an honor to represent such a storied brand here in the U.S.”
“As we celebrate Hagstrom’s 100th anniversary this year, we’re proud to mark the occasion with a firm return to the U.S. market,” said a Karl Erik Hagstrom. “American players have always been an essential part of our legacy, and we’re excited to once again offer them the instruments that reflect a century of innovation, craftsmanship, and dedication to music.”
Hagstrom’s relaunch in the U.S. will feature a full product line of electric guitars and basses, including reissues of beloved vintage models like the Viking and newer innovations that reflect Hagstrom’s signature blend of tradition and forward-thinking design including the Fantomen, Krona. Adina, Megin and Nekromant models.
Retailers and musicians alike can expect improved availability, service, and support as Hagstrom establishes a stronger footprint stateside.
To celebrate the re-launch, and 100 years of company history, Hagstrom will be exhibiting at the 2026 NAMM Show in Anaheim, CA, January 24-26. Dealers and Musicians are invited to experience the iconic and newest models, vibrant finishes, and unmistakable tone that have made Hagstrom a guitar enthusiast favorite.
Optimal Audio Appoints Republik Pro AVL as New Turkish Distributor
Optimal Audio has announced the appointment of Istanbul-based Republik Pro AVL as its new distribution partner for Turkey. Republik presented the Optimal Audio ecosystem on stand at the recent IMEEF Expo 2025 (4-7 December 2025 – Yenikapı Expo Center, Istanbul)
Republik Pro AVL was formed earlier this year with a clear mission to bring meaningful, brand-focused distribution back to the Turkish pro-audio market. Co-founder Kemal ‘Kal’ Yener explains, “Republik exists solely as a distributor with no integration arm. That means our partners know we’re here to support them, not compete with them. It’s a model built on trust.”
That ethos aligns closely with Optimal Audio’s own vision of simple, high-quality commercial audio. Yener observed, “The communication from Optimal Audio was clear, fast and refreshingly straightforward. It became very natural to take the next step together.”
Yener admired Optimal Audio’s rapidly growing global presence and the strength of its ecosystem with flexible zoned control managed through WebApp. He also recognized a major opportunity in the Turkish market. “Integrators would ask about simple, reliable solutions for hospitality, retail and leisure but struggled with stock and local backup. There’s huge room to rebuild confidence. Optimal Audio’s portfolio fits perfectly with where the Turkish market is heading.”
Republik Pro AVL has already begun laying strong foundations for the brand’s success. The company is investing in a modern, digital-first operational backbone: a B2B portal linked to ERP for real-time stock and pricing, strong demo inventory, structured training and comprehensive after-sales support.
“These tools help us raise the game for Turkish integrators and rental companies,” Yener explains. “We’ll be delivering focused education, building a strong social presence and launching a B2B e-commerce platform to make ordering and support as simple as Optimal Audio itself.”
David Morbey, Optimal Audio product manager, agreed, “Their pure distribution model, broad market expertise and commitment to integrators are a perfect match for Optimal Audio’s philosophy. We’re genuinely excited about the growth ahead.”
Algam Ashdown Appointed as Exclusive UK Distributor for OLLO Audio
Algam Ashdown is pleased to announce a new distribution partnership with OLLO Audio, becoming the exclusive UK distributor for a brand’s premium professional-audio headphones.
This agreement brings OLLO Audio’s acclaimed monitoring solutions directly to the UK market, beginning with the launch of the new X1 reference headphones.
Founded in Slovenia and known for their handcrafted, precision-tuned designs, OLLO Audio has built a strong reputation among engineers, producers, and audio creators seeking transparent, reliable tools for mixing and mastering. Their products combine meticulous acoustic engineering with sustainable manufacturing and long-term serviceability, a philosophy that aligns closely with Algam Ashdown’s commitment to quality and professional support.
Introducing the X1
The first product available through the new partnership is the OLLO Audio X1. Engineered for absolute accuracy, the X1 delivers a natural, neutral response designed to help creators make confident mixing decisions.
Each pair is individually calibrated and supplied with OLLO’s USC II calibration software, ensuring consistent translation between headphone and speaker environments. Built with premium materials including American walnut ear-cups and a stainless-steel headband, the X1 is crafted for durability, comfort, and long-term use, with every component fully serviceable.
A Partnership Designed for the UK Professional Audio Community
- Through this exclusive distribution agreement, Algam Ashdown will provide:
- Enhanced UK availability of OLLO Audio’s product range.
- Localized customer service, warranty support, and product expertise.
- Improved access for retailers, studios, and professional users.
- A streamlined path for future OLLO Audio product launches in the UK.
This partnership reflects Algam Ashdown’s ongoing mission to represent exceptional brands and supply the UK with world-class tools built for modern production workflows.
EAW NT206L Delivers World-Class Sound in Lightweight Active Line Array
Eastern Acoustic Works (EAW®) highlights its latest Newport Series including the NT206L loudspeaker, at both NAMM 2026 (Demo Room 17116) and ISE 2026 (Stand 7E900 and Audio Demo Room D6). The NT206L is a compact, self-powered line array loudspeaker that simplifies audio setup and operation for installations and production events. Premium audio quality combined with fast, non-complex operation make the Newport Series the ideal solution for any event where speed and simplicity are critical without sacrificing audio quality.
“Newport represents the simplicity in setup and excellence in performance that built EAW over our 47-year history,” says TJ Smith, president at Eastern Acoustic Works. “We look forward to showcasing the benefits of the NT206L and the Newport Series to both NAMM and ISE attendees.”
Engineered for power and precision, NT206L features two 6.5-inch low-frequency drivers with 2-inch voice coils and a 1.75-inch high-frequency driver, brought to life by 1500 watts of onboard power. A newly patented EAW waveguide leverages EAW’s Focusing technology to provide exceptional high-frequency response. NT206L also debuts a new EAW Core Technology called Adjustable Horizontal Directivity (AHD). With AHD, users can quickly choose between four horizontal coverage profiles through simple, toolless adjustments in the field. NT206L plays loud (139dB) and goes low (65-20kHz), all in a premium Baltic birch, steel and aluminum enclosure. Weighing under 32lb (14.5kg), this active loudspeaker is lighter than most passive, plastic enclosures in its class.
People
d&b audiotechnik is pleased to announce that Cameron Wilkison assumes the role of managing director, d&b Canada, effectively immediately. Cameron will actively manage the overall business activities for d&b audiotechnik in the Canadian marketplace. Since joining the d&b Canada team in 2019, Wilkison has been overseeing and managing sales for western Canada. A veteran of the professional audio industry, Wilkison was previously with Canadian professional audio manufacturer Radial Engineering and Primacoustic, where he was involved in product development and responsible for a variety of sales and marketing activities throughout the region and internationally.
Francois Corbin, former managing director, and a key member of the d&b audiotechnik leadership team, will assume an advisory role for the company. Corbin will remain on staff in the near-term to facilitate the transition to the new managing director for d&b audiotechnik Canada.
d&b audiotechnik North America is also pleased to announce the appointment of Pierre-Paul Gignac to the role of sales support specialist, which entails education and application support for Canada and regional sales for the province of Quebec. An audio systems designer for more than 22 years, Gignac was previously an independent contractor hired directly by clients for his audio engineering expertise and was also a key member of the Solotech design services team, where he was responsible for overseeing all design services for the Quebec City, Solotech office.
“We’re pleased to have Cameron assume the leadership role for the Canadian region and welcome Pierre-Paul to the d&b Canada team. Together, I am confident they will continue to build on the success we’ve experienced in Canada over the last several years,” states Larry Italia, president and CEO, d&b audiotechnik – Americas. “I want to thank Francois for his leadership and tireless commitment in helping grow the d&b brand in Canada, he will be missed and wish him a happy and fulfilling retirement.”
