Brunswick Corporation has exercised its option to purchase the remaining 51% of Supra-Industrial Textil, Lda. that it did not already own. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. Brunswick had purchased 49% of this manufacturer of the Valiant brand of rigid inflatable boats (RIBs) in 1999.
“Under the leadership of our Brunswick European Group, we have been executing a strategy to accelerate growth of our marine businesses in this important region,” commented Brunswick Chairman and Chief Executive Officer George W. Buckley. “Ownership of the Valiant brand will enable us to expand distribution beyond the existing dealer network and is further evidence of our commitment to offer our marine dealers the quality products that will help them grow their businesses.”
“The RIB market is one of the most popular and fastest growing segments in boating,” remarked Victoria J. Reich, president of the Brunswick European Group. “Valiant brings to Brunswick a strong management team that has delivered above-market growth, product innovation, manufacturing expertise and a commitment to quality. As part of the BEG family, we will strive to build on that record by expanding distribution and enhancing our product portfolio.”
Valiant RIBs are manufactured in Vila Nova de Cerveira, Portugal. The company has approximately 150 employees who produce approximately 3,500 RIBs annually ranging from 2.4 to 12 meters in length. It will become part of the Brunswick European Group.
