Calling it “more strength, capabilities and opportunities for the world leader in paddlesports equipment,” Laval, Quebec’s Pelican International Inc. has acquired the assets of Confluence Outdoors LLC, of Greenville, S.C. The move marks one of the biggest mergers in the paddlesports sector since Confluence was formed with the acquisition of Dagger, Perception, Wave Sport, Wilderness Systems and Mad River Canoe more than two decades ago.
With the acquisition, Pelican climbs the ladder to offer the most comprehensive assortment of paddlesports equipment in the industry, from premium brands to more accessible ref offerings.
“The entire Pelican team, my brother Christian and I are thrilled to welcome the Confluence team in the Pelican family,” said Antoine Élie, co-founder of Pelican International. “The combination will produce by far the largest and most comprehensive group in the paddlesports space. This powerhouse will offer, under the best brands, a complete line-up of products spanning all paddlesports categories, catering to the needs of all types of consumers.
Confluence’s paddlesport brands were sold to J.H. Whitney in 2014, an equity group whose previous holdings have included The North Face and Eastern Mountain Sports. (Read more here: http://paddlinglife.net/2014/04/28/confluence-watersports-sold-plans-to-expand-outdoor-business/)
“The acquisition aims to capitalize on the strengths and capabilities of two synergistic businesses and brands, in a consolidating and globalizing industry,” he added. “With more than 800 employees in three manufacturing sites in North America, an improved distribution network and a strong commitment to innovation, the momentum behind both brands is stronger than ever.”
“Pelican and Confluence are the ideal fit,” added Confluence Outdoor Marketing VP Todd King. “It’s the optimal union of two industry leaders poised to drive innovation and serve consumers better than ever before. This is very powerful as a force for good for the industry and consumers in general. Confluence Outdoor owns such paddlesport brands as Wilderness Systems, Perception, Dagger, Mad River Canoe, Harmony Gear and Boardworks and also caters to all levels of watersport enthusiasts.
