Ellington Handbags Appoints Women's Apparel Expert Gary Hansen to CEO Position

PORTLAND, Ore., Nov. 5 /PRNewswire/ -- Ellington Handbags has announced Gary Hansen as the company's new President and CEO. Ellington is a lifestyle accessories brand serving both wholesale and consumer customer bases, specializing in casual-chic handbags and travel accessories in signature leathers and fabrics. Hansen, former President of Pacific Trail, Inc., an international source for outdoor apparel, will officially join Ellington November 8, at which time he will represent the brand at the WWD Apparel CEO Summit in New York.

Hansen has worked nationally and internationally in both the private and nonprofit sectors for the past 25 years. During his tenure at Pacific Trail, Inc., Hansen led the initiative to grow the brand's women's apparel business and succeeded in establishing Pacific Trail as a leader in the women's outdoor apparel market. Hansen also oversaw the licensing of backpacks, luggage and carry-gear while at Pacific Trail.

William Dragon, Jr., Ellington Board Member and former CEO of London Fog Industries, was instrumental in bringing Hansen on board at Ellington. "I have worked with Gary in the past and know him well. Gary has a broad base of multifunctional operating experience and as well is an excellent leader and senior-level manager," Dragon says. "His experience guiding organizations through times of change will be an asset as Ellington grows into a leading handbag brand."

Hansen will also serve on Ellington's Board of Directors alongside fellow Board members Tariq Malhance, Ross Christianson and Sachin Gupta, all of Chicago-based private equity firm UIB Capital, which purchased Ellington in 2006.

About Ellington

For over 20 years, Ellington has been making practical yet fashionable accessories for women.

What began in 1986 as a small family business with one product--the Original Ellington Rucksack--has since grown into an extensive line of accessories driven by a dedicated group of creative individuals. In 2006, the company was bought by Chicago-based private equity firm UIB Capital, a premier provider of equity capital focused on investing in middle-market companies with significant opportunities for growth.

Ellington's current line includes handbags, totes, travel bags, and wallets in fine leathers and fabrics. With a focus on signature materials and unique designs, Ellington's vision is to create bags with authentic style and substance--the perfect companions for everyday adventures.

Ellington products are available through specialty stores including Eddie Bauer, national catalogs such as Garnet Hill, and online retailers including eBags.com. Private label partners include Sundance Catalog and Pendleton Woolen Mills. Ellington operates a branded store in Portland, Oregon, and maintains its own e-commerce website, www.ellingtonhandbags.com.

SOURCE Ellington Handbags