Ariston Brand Enters US Market Through Ultra 8 Consortium

Fabriano, Italy producer "Merloni Electrodomestici" (not same as ASKO owner "Antonio Merloni Group") is entering the US market with their Ariston brand in conjunction with a to-be-created consortium of distributors known as "Ultra 8".  The product line is to include the never very successful concept of US approved European designs of dishwashers, ovens, and cooktops.  "Ultra 8" is led by several current Oakton Distributor employees and several BSH refugees, and is owned by the management, Oakton Distribution (who bankrolled the idea), 7 other distributor investors who pony up with $100,000, and probably Merloni.  We have heard that the pitch to the sought after 7 distributors includes the plan that in 5-10 years Merloni wants to go direct, so be ready to sell out.  Representatives of "Ultra 8" have refused comment, but distributors have been less than pleased with the program or the products.  At this time,  "Ultra 2" may be a better name.