Coming 40 years after the invention of the retractable dog lead, Flexi's innovation is intended to herald the dawn of a new generation of leads. As such, its presentation in Bologna was awaited with great excitement. The company, which is based in Bargteheide near Hamburg and is regarded as the world market leader in retractable dog leads, has been inspired to some extent in its development by ground-breaking technological innovations such as the iPhone or iPad.The aim of Flexi International was to bring to market a product that combines many functions in one unit, is unconventional in design and yet is easy and flexible to operate. "With the 'Vario' Flexi set itself the target of meeting the coolest customer requests in recent years. All dog lovers can now assemble their individual Flexi lead from various accessory modules," explains founder and managing director Manfred Bogdahn.A host of functionsThe constituent parts of the new "Vario" leads are a new, patented short-stroke braking system, a patented handle size adjustment facility, a patented harness-change coupling and interchangeable accessories. Sophisticated accessories complement the "Vario" product range: an LED light system with a headlamp and rear light, a multi-box for treats or dog waste bags, interchangeable end straps such as an LED flashing light strap, a coupling lead for two dogs and an extensible strap for halting the dog without jerking all help to turn the new "Vario" into a genuine all-rounder.The new generation of leads will be available as cord or tape versions in different sizes and colours from this summer.For the international market launch, Flexi International will support retailers with eye-catching point of sale presentations. "We are thus clearly pursuing our corporate goal of strengthening the 'flexi international' brand, underlining our quality and market leadership and winning the trade and the consumers over afresh every day through constant innovation," stresses Manfred Bogdahn.Download: A new generation of leads (PDF file)