German MI manufacturer and distributor, GEWA Music has announced that it has acquired the global licensing rights for all things Gretsch Drums. GEWA has already been Gretsch’s distributor in Europe for a few years.
An agreement reached between GEWA, current manufacturing, marketing and distribution license holder, DW (Drum Workshop) and Gretsch brand-owner Fred Gretsch, provides that GEWA will now be responsible for the production of the iconic drum brand, which celebrated its 140th anniversary in 2023.
Per an official statement, GEWA CEO/owner Hans-Peter Messner said, “GEWA music and the Gretsch family are eagerly anticipating a successful future and are excited about the joint opportunities arising from this significant collaboration.
“GEWA music will continue to maintain all international distributions of Gretsch Drums for the foreseeable future. The Gretsch Drums factory in Ridgeland (SC), previously managed by DW, will be taken over by GEWA music USA. From there, instruments manufactured in the USA will be directly supplied to North American retailers or shipped to foreign distributors. Hal Leonard will continue to act as the USA distribution partner for Gretsch popular priced drums produced by GEWA music in Asia.”
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