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Wind-Instruments

Conn-Selmer purchases Leblanc

Conn-Selmer, a division of Steinway Musical Instruments, announced the completion of the purchase of the G. Leblanc Corporation of Kenosha, Wisconsin. Leblanc is a manufacturer of high quality band instruments and sells products under the Leblanc, Noblet, Vito, Holton, Martin and Yanagisawa brand names.
John Stoner, President of Conn-Selmer, commented, "Leblanc products will enhance our position in the woodwind category and the company's globally recognized brands will strengthen our overall presence in both the U.S. and abroad. On behalf of the entire Conn-Selmer team, I would like to welcome the employees of G. Leblanc to the Conn-Selmer family. This transaction affords us a tremendous opportunity to become a better supplier to our customers and a more significant entity in our industry."
Leon Pascucci will continue as president of Leblanc and will be working with Stoner in assuring a smooth integration. Pascucci said, "Leblanc has a long history, with French roots tracing back to 1750. The business has been in my family for nearly 60 years, so my primary concern was to ensure its continuation. I'm thrilled that Leblanc will become part of a company with the reputation of Steinway Musical Instruments. Also, I'm pleased that Leblanc will maintain a strong manufacturing presence in Kenosha."
The company has already combined its sales forces and consolidated some marketing and operations positions. "With the emergence of Chinese manufacturing and instruments showing up on the shelves of mass merchandisers, you have to be nimble to succeed," Stoner noted. "As we go forward, we are considering a number of options to help our dealers compete more effectively in this challenging environment."
John Stoner, President of Conn-Selmer
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