Burnaby, BC’s Mustang Survival has merged with Massachusetts-based PFD-maker MTI Adventurewear, creating a burgeoning force in the lifejacket market.
Mustang’s parent company, California-based WING Group, a manufacturer of inflatable sponsons, small combat craft, whitewater rafting solutions, life rafts, and marine doors and windows, closed on the acquisition to bolser its recreational portfolio.
“Combining the technical engineering of Mustang Survival with the design and development of MTI Adventurewear will provide a platform to build world-class premium white-water, rescue and guide level product,” says Mustang GM Jason Leggatt. “It will allow us to build a podium brand in this high-growth category.”
The WING Group has been expanding its core product offering with acquisitions aligned to its values and mission, with MTI fitting in perfectly.
“MTI represented an incredible opportunity to become more relevant in the paddlesports market,” says CEO Andrew Branagh. “Combining the Mustang Survival brand, DNA and product, together with MTI we can now provide premium foam flotation solutions in a full assortment to increase the commercial appeal to a broader selection of consumers. It allows Mustang to enhance its offerings in paddlesports PFDs and become the trusted industry leader in marine recreation with product that spans all activities from off-shore sailing, kayak angling, boating and now, in a much larger way, paddling.”
MTI Adventurewearis a family-owned and operated business founded in 1991. Current owners Gordon and Lili Colby have been passionate about developing and producing comfortable and affordable foam and inflatable PFDs for paddlers since they bought the business in 2011.
“The best PFD is the one someone will wear, and it’s been our mission to make getting into and wearing a PFD as easy and accessible as we can,” says Lili. “We’re excited to become part of the Mustang Survival family, and to work alongside a likeminded group of dedicated designers, engineers and customer experience professionals, all focused on delivering premium service and solutions.”
Both will take on roles at Mustang. Gordon will work in PFD design and development while Lili will assist its sales and marketing teams. The acquisition and Mustang Survival’s push into outdoor/paddle will be paired with a huge investment in grassroots marketing.
Mustang Survival is currently working with all MTI customers and suppliers to develop a smooth business transition. Product will be showcased and sold via the Mustang Survival website, and all customer service will be handled by Mustang teams.
About Mustang Survival
Established in 1967 by Irv Davies, the inventor of the world’s first FloaterTM Coat, Mustang Survival has been designing and manufacturing lifesaving solutions for more than 50 years. Through constant innovation and inspired technical solutions, Mustang Survival strives to bolster performance, encourage exploration and inspire adventure in the marine environment. Headquartered in Burnaby, BC, Canada, Mustang Survival has more than 250 associates across the US and Canada. Info: www.mustangsurvival.com.
About The WING Group
The WING Group is privately owned and led by President and CEO Andrew Branagh and includes Wing Inflatables, Henshaw Inflatables, Patten Company, FabTek Industries and Mustang Survival. The WING Group is the industry leader in manufacturing sponsons, inflatable craft, and more. For over 30 years WING’s first in the field innovative use of polyurethane and pioneering new technology have led to the development of sponsons and boats that are lighter, last longer, look better and outperform the competition.