Here is the text of the announcement from Jim Bakke, Pres & CEO of SZ Group:

Sub-Zero Group, Inc. is the exclusive North American ASKO importer and distributor

I am happy to announce that Sub-Zero Group, Inc. just forged a long term business alliance with Gorenje Group, owner of the global ASKO brand of premium appliances. As of April 1, 2014, we are now the exclusive importer and distributor for residential cleaning appliances of ASKO dishwasher, laundry and dryer products in the US, Canada and Mexico.

ASKO products will be distributed by our well-established Sub-Zero and Wolf network of distributors and dealers. It will be supported by our best-in-class Customer Care team as well as the factory certified service, installation and parts distribution organization. This agreement will strengthen ASKOâÂÂs position in the premium segment, and yield much greater efficiency in servicing ASKO products and satisfying ASKO owners. With stateside warehousing capability, weâÂÂll be able to deliver parts to our service centers in a fraction of the time as was previously required.

"The addition of ASKO was a natural next step for Sub-Zero Group. For years, weâÂÂve been laying the groundwork to handle expansion opportunities. WeâÂÂre operationally strong and are prepared to deliver the same high-level of customer support for ASKO that has become one of our competitive advantages," said Steve Zimmerschied, corporate director, customer service for Sub-Zero Group, Inc.

Like Sub-Zero and Wolf, ASKO designs products that meet the most stringent demands of design, function, durability, and environmental awareness. Not only is ASKO complementary in a design and manufacturing sense, the company shares many values and commitments with Sub-Zero and Wolf. This transatlantic alliance makes good business and philosophical sense for both companies. For example, both Sub-Zero and ASKO:

were started over 60 years ago by entrepreneurs who valued quality, performance and design
build appliances with timeless design, lasting performance, and innovative features
build their products to the highest standards of quality to ensure top customer satisfaction
are committed to resource-saving design and manufacturing

The North American ASKO lineup will include a few new models, with select models offering Sub-Zero and Wolf matching handles and front panels. The ASKO dishwasher line will complement Sub-Zero GroupâÂÂs own dishwasher line currently in development.

I invite you to visit the newly launched ASKO North American website at askona.com