Effective January 1st, 2016, Hoshino U.S.A., Inc. has announced that it has finalized an exclusive distribution agreement with Hardcase International Limited, makers of Hardcase drum cases.
Hoshino U.S.A. will distribute Hardcase drum, cymbal, and hardware road cases for the entire U.S. market, including Puerto Rico.
The British-based manufacturer of rigid, plastic drum cases was established in England in 1992, and currently supplies 35 international markets as well as a network of established British High Street retailers. Known for pioneering advanced rotational molding techniques, Hardcase manufactures all of its case products using virgin polymers (plastics) for superior strength and durability. Hardcase appoints its cases with high tensile straps with quick-release clips, rugged carrier handles, foam grip pads, an ID badge, and extra heavy duty wheels. Customers may choose from a range of vibrant colors, as well as optional full foam lining. Hardcase also offers a Lifetime Warranty on all 190 of their case specifications.
“Hardcase has built a great reputation in Europe and we’re very proud to be distributing their products here in the U.S.,” said Hoshino U.S.A. product manager, Charlie Hayashi. Hayashi went on to comment: “Hardcase will, of course, be available through our established Hoshino brand dealer network here in the U.S., but we welcome inquiries from other interested U.S. dealers as well.”
“What a huge honor and pleasure to both welcome and introduce Hoshino U.S.A. as our new distribution partners for the U.S. market. We are so excited with this fantastic new partnership and opportunity for the brand,” said Hardcase Sales Manager Dave Eyre. “Interest from the U.S. market for our case products has been overwhelming in recent years, so we knew a route had to be found to meet this growing demand. After meeting with both Charlie Hayashi and Shogo Hayashi (Hoshino U.S.A. president) at NAMM 2015 and Musikmesse 2015, their interest and enthusiasm for the brand was evident and the rest, as they say, is history.”
The armored roadworthiness of Hardcase has made them the professional’s choice for protecting instruments from the harsh realities of gigging and touring. Once a well-kept secret among a small circle of British touring drummers, the company’s artist endorser list has expanded to include recording/touring giants: Will Calhoun, Omar Hakim, Gavin Harrison, Nicko McBrian, and Ian Paice.
Looking Back on 2025: A Year of Controlled Chaos (Emphasis on “Controlled”)