In a move that is sure to change the face of the paddlesports industry once again, Confluence Holdings last week acquired one of their largest competitors, WaterMark Paddlesports. Rumors about a pending merger deal had been floating around the industry for months, with speculation about which company would emerge the owner the hot topic of a number of conversations. In spite of that speculation, Confluence now holds roughly a 45% share in the kayak market with only one other major competitor in Johnson Outdoors.

Confluence also announced that Richard Feehan, former general manager of Old Town canoe and kayak has been appointed CEO of Confluence Holdings. Feehan was involved in a lengthy legal battle that started in Feb. 2004 when Johnson Outdoors was granted a temporary restraining order preventing Feehan from accepting this same CEO position. Feehan told BOSS that those issues have been addressed and are behind him.

Even though Confluence is the acquiring company and new parent, it is slightly smaller in terms of volume. Confluence will be adding roughly 200 people from Watermark’s Easley facility to their payroll, with “the lion’s share” of the employees joining the company.

The acquisition does not include Watermark’s Land Sports division, comprised almost entirely of Yakima. After a short transition period, that business will move forward under the name Yakima Products Inc. Jim Clark, former CEO of Watermark, will become the CEO of the new company, with Amy Buckalter as SVP of global sales and marketing, Steve Rodden as VP of product development, Chris Bogue as director of sales for the western region, and Doug Ragan as director of sales for the eastern region. Yakima also recently hired two other senior executives in finance and human resources. Mike Steck will also remain with Yakima as the company’s marketing manager. The Yakima business made up roughly 55% of the former Watermark Company. About 35 Watermark employees have made the move to Beaverton, OR from Arcata, CA to continue with Yakima.

Confluence now boasts a portfolio of ten brands including Mad River Canoe, Wilderness Systems touring and recreational kayaks, Wave Sport whitewater kayaks, WindRider sailing trimarans, Voyageur water sports accessories, Dagger touring and whitewater kayaks, Perception touring and whitewater kayaks, Mainstream recreational kayaks, Harmony paddlesports accessories, and AT Paddles.