Hanson Guitars buys Lakland; brand name will continue with model changes
(Dave Molter | Posted 2010-05-03)
Hanson Guitars of Chicago has bought the Lakland bass company (see press release below). Founded in 1994, Lakland basses have earned a wide following among professionals, both big names and players still in the trenches, with their attention to detail and great sounding basses. The Lakland brand name will continue, but some model names will changes -- the Bob Glaub, Duck Dunn and Joe Osborn basses now will carry numeric designations -- 44-64, 44-64 Custom and 44-64/55-60, respectively.
Hanson has provided pickups for Lakland since 2005 and promised that Lakland's legendary customer service will continue. What will become of Lakland founder Dan Lakin has not yet been announced.
Although details were not announced about why the change in ownership was made, speculation is that like many small manufacturers -- and even some larger manufacturers of musical instruments -- Lakland was affected by the recent economic downturn and resultant sluggish sales.
PRESS RELEASE
April 30, 2010
CHICAGO, IL-USA. Pickup and electric guitar manufacturer Hanson Musical Instruments,LTD, announces that a group, led by itself, has purchased the globally respected bass guitar brand Lakland Basses of Chicago. Former Lakland executive John Pirruccello has been named President of the newly formed Lakland Guitars, LLC, and will be responsible for managing the company's daily operations and future development effective immediately. John assumes these duties in addition to his position as head of the Hanson Musical Instruments guitar division.
Pirruccello's background includes 11 years at Lakland as Global Sales Director as well as the company's Chief Operations Officer. He contributed greatly to the development of current Lakland products, including the "Skyline Series" line of bass guitars; and was responsible for expanding Lakland's dealer and distribution network around the world. “JP” is also a prominent Chicago musician that has performed, recorded and or collaborated with the likes of Keith Richards, Staind, Alejandro Escovedo, Wilco, and others. John will oversee the seamless transition at Lakland's present facilities in Chicago. Lakland Guitars, LLC is retaining current luthiers and support staff.
Hanson Musical Instruments wants to thank Lakland founder Dan Lakin for his vision and stewardship of the Lakland brand, which he founded in 1994 with Hugh McFarland.
Hanson Musical Instruments has been Lakland's primary supplier of bass pickups and preamp products since 2005. The principals of Hanson Musical Instruments, LTD were previously shareholders of Lakland from 2000 until 2009.
Lakland is a manufacturer of high quality bass guitars and accessories.
Website: www.lakland.com
Hanson Musical Instruments is a manufacturer of professional electric guitars and of electric guitar and bass pickups and electronics.
Websites: www.hansonguitars.com and www.hansonpickups.com
