Samsonite creative change

Luxury luggage and accessories label, Samsonite named Christopher Pearson as its new Global Creative Director. Pearson has worked for some of the world's leading names in the industry, including Dunhill, Lanvin, Louis Vuitton, Yves St Laurent and Hermes. He has been tasked to further establishing the label as the contemporary luggage of choice for the discerning traveller. Pearson will be based in London at Samsonite's global executive offices, heading up the global design function. He will design collections under the Samsonite Black Label, Samsonite and American Tourister brands.

The role of Global Creative Director was established under the leadership of Marcello Bottoli, President and CEO. Under Bottoli, the company redefined fine travel goods under the Samsonite brand. Building on the company's heritage, a new vision for highly aspirational, design-led innovation has resulted in Samsonite being acknowledged as one of the leading luxury travel and accessories brands in the world. In his new role, Pearson will replace Quentin Mackay who had been Samsonite's Global Creative Director since January 2005. Quentin has decided to pursue other career and creative opportunities.

Marcello Bottoli commented: "Since 1910, Samsonite has been the worldwide leader in travel bags, proving its place within luxury and lifestyle travel, whilst creating collections that reflect people's needs. With Christopher's appointment we further secure this place, uniting our unrivalled history with Pearson's modern style and design credentials. We are fortunate to have already seen what Pearson can bring to Samsonite following his collaboration in our highly successful Samsonite Black Label Bayamo project - a collection that has been well received by both the industry and the public."

Samsonite is known for combining its notable style with the latest design technology and the attention to quality and durability. Utilising top designer expertise from around the globe, Samsonite creates products for the sophisticated traveller. Samsonite markets products under the Samsonite, Samsonite Black Label, Samsonite OutLab, Lambertson Truex, American Tourister, Lacoste and Timberland brands.