Energizer licensees Universal Power Group, ICP Solar join forces

CARROLLTON, USA & MONTREAL, CANADA: Universal Power Group Inc., a Texas-based distributor and supplier of batteries and related power accessories, and a provider of supply chain and other value-added services, announced that it has entered into a supply chain management services agreement with ICP Solar Technologies Inc., a developer and marketer of innovative solar panels, solar chargers, energy meters and other solar powered devices.

UPG is a leading, Texas-based distributor and supplier of batteries and related power accessories and a provider of supply chain and other value-added services. In December 2008, UPG entered into a licensing agreement with Energizer Holdings, Inc. to develop a line of automotive power products under the Energizer brand for distribution through mass, specialty and automotive stores.

"We are delighted to combine our expertise in third-party logistics with ICP Solar, while also expanding the breadth of Energizer-branded products we can offer to our combined target markets”, said UPG’s president and CEO, Ian Edmonds.

“This marks another step in UPG’s long-term strategy of penetrating new markets through strategic alliances, while introducing new products to our existing customers. As a result, we can offer our retail and strategic partners a more complete line of power accessories, while also adding opportunities for additional services and new distribution outlets.

“In addition, diversifying our markets minimizes UPG’s exposure to any one segment of the economy. ICP Solar is an example of the kinds of strategic partnerships we are seeking today, and we look forward to a mutually beneficial relationship for the long term.”

“Since UPG is also a licensing partner in the Energizer program and a major provider of third-party logistics for battery-based systems, we are collaborating with them to substantially improve ICP Solar’s in-stock performance and also add their complementary products to our offerings,” said Sass Peress, CEO of ICP Solar Technologies.

“This relationship will also enable UPG to offer ICP Solar’s innovative line of Energizer-branded solar chargers to their own vast customer base. By drawing on UPG’s inventory and logistics support, ICP Solar can now increase its focus on innovation, marketing and sales. We expect this agreement to significantly improve our revenues and positively impact our bottom line for our next fiscal year.”