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Industry Leader Joins Industry Innovator To Expand Operations
Las Vegas, NV., July 27, 2020 – American Barbell announced it has recently secured Doug Katona as its new CEO. Founder and industry innovator Phil Patti says it’s all about expanding and accelerating growth. Katona will be responsible for the overall growth and operations of American Barbell as new markets continue to expand. Patti will now serve as Global Development Director and head up the company’s product development, materials management and key relationships. Katona and Patti also plan to launch a new division of American Barbell expected to be announced in late 2020.
The addition of Katona as CEO and equity partner along with the elevated position of Patti will allow the company to expand its Las Vegas headquarters, establish a satellite in Orange County, CA., and expand operations in China where the company owns and operates a second manufacturing facility. “American Barbell is a high-quality brand and a product that I’ve used for years – it’s clearly a product that I can truthfully stand behind,” says Katona. “The key factors for me to join the company are really the culture and extensive industry experience of the team, it will allow us to strategically scale while building the brand. I appreciate the fact that American Barbell genuinely cares about delivering a high-quality product and a soon-to-be better customer experience with the addition of our powerful content coming soon.” Katona is the former COO of World Gym International (and creator of World Gym Athletics) and is industry-recognized as an author, leadership coach, educator and presenter.
Patti founded the company in 2014. American Barbell is known for the patented splined dumbbell product, pioneering the Urethane bumper plate and being the first to develop the Cerakote barbell among other innovations. “Doug brings a proven track record in leadership and operations as well as a valuable understanding of all facets of our organization.” Patti adds that “it’s powerful to have a partner that is actively involved and can navigate the multiple channels of our industry. Doug will help us continue to build our valuation and product lines for our partners and customers.” Patti says “as we position our business, we will continue to be a leader in our category with a stronger education and marketing platform.” Patti adds that the company has already secured, with Katona’s help, additional staff to help grow the offering. Jeff Goergen and Philip Patti complete the executive team at American Barbell.
American Barbell has key customers such as Planet Fitness, Gold’s Gym and Orangetheory Fitness. The company has also established a wider distribution network globally as well as developing a diverse selection of both commercial and home products.