Pelican Intl Inc., a newly formed entity, has acquired the assets, excluding GSI Outdoors, of Pelican International Inc. and Confluence Outdoor Inc. through a court-approved Sale and Investment Solicitation Process (SISP) under the Companies’ Creditors Arrangement Act (CCAA) in Canada and Chapter 15 in the United States.
The combined portfolio now includes the Pelican, Wilderness Systems, Dagger, Perception Kayak, Advanced Elements, and Boardworks paddlesports brands.
“This transaction was led by former Pelican President and CEO Danick Lavoie, along with former executives Frederic Guay and Guy Prenevost. A diverse and experienced group of private investors, represented by Vincent Chiara, president and founder of Mach Capital, Marc Varadi, president of RIMAP Hospitality, Luc Sabbatini, founder of Ganesh Capital, and Charles Malo, Board member and investor, has partnered with management to set Pelican Intl’s path for growth, resilience, and success,” The company said in a media release. “Today marks a pivotal moment for the paddlesport industry, ensuring the continued legacy and innovation of a world-leading portfolio of brands. The core of the company remains strong, as over 400 passionate and dedicated employees will pave the way for the future.”
In an effort to further integrate the two companies, Confluence Outdoor Inc. will now operate as Pelican Intl USA Inc., unifying North American operations. This change is expected to provide a clear path for the legacy paddlesport name, Confluence Outdoor, to become the combined company’s online marketplace and storefront for consumers, as well as the exclusive platform to streamline how the new company conducts business with large retailers and independent dealer network.
Danick Lavoie, president and CEO, Pelican Intl Inc., sent a message to employees, customers, suppliers and the paddlesports industry as a whole, outlining its focus on each segment:
To Our Employees: We extend our gratitude to our resilient workforce, whose unwavering dedication sustained high-performing operations despite challenging market conditions, unsustainable debt levels, and complex CCAA proceedings. Your commitment to excellence has preserved our brands’ reputation for quality and reliability, laying a strong foundation for our future success.
To Our Customers: Your continued support through the restructuring process has been invaluable in making this transaction possible. Pelican Intl Inc. is more committed than ever to delivering unparalleled products, innovation, and value to paddlesport enthusiasts of all levels. With a robust portfolio including Pelican, Wilderness Systems, Dagger, Perception Kayak, Advanced Elements, and Boardworks, we will continue to expand the accessibility of our products across all B2B and B2C channels, while further enhancing the agility and simplicity of our supply chain and the customer experience.
To Our Industry: Pelican Intl Inc. is eager to lead the transformation of the paddlesport category, driving innovation and promoting sustained growth in participation. We aim to foster a healthy, collaborative industry capable of disrupting in ways that create value for all brands, so we can continue to invest in new products that inspire adventurers worldwide.
To Our Suppliers: We sincerely acknowledge the support of both domestic and international partners who have championed the brands over the years and in recent months through the CCAA process. The newly formed Pelican Intl Inc. is committed to forging renewed partnerships, leveraging our state-of-the-art rotomolding, extrusion, and thermoforming facilities in Québec and Greenville, South Carolina, to deliver exceptional products and support mutual growth.
Strategic Vision for Growth
Supported by new investors, Pelican Intl Inc. said it is poised to further consolidate its leadership in the paddlesport sector. The company is expected to actively pursue acquisitions and strategic partnership to strengthen its portfolio, ensuring it remains the global leader in paddlesports.
“By leveraging all distribution channels, we aim to reach enthusiasts across generations, from beginners to seasoned adventurers,” the company said. “In addition, our advanced manufacturing capabilities in Canada and the United States are well-positioned to support other consumer goods brands and strategic industries requiring large-format, complex equipment and parts.”
The company said the effort will be supported by its deep product development and innovation expertise.
“This acquisition reflects the enduring strength of our brands, the resilience of our employees, and the loyalty of our retailers,” offered Lavoie. “We assembled an exceptional group of investors, and I am deeply grateful for their trust. Their level of commitment to making this complex transaction possible will create a well-capitalized company, preserve Pelican’s legacy, and shape a renewed path for the future.”
Lavoie said the fundamentals of Pelican are resilient and strong.
“Over the past decades, Pelican was built with vision and passion, bringing breakthrough product innovation to the market and building solid manufacturing capabilities,” he continued. “In recent years, the company consistently outperformed competitors — even through rapid growth and a sharp market cycle decline.”
The CEO said Pelican further solidified its leading position through strategic M&A, distribution channel diversification, and strong operational performance.
“I am privileged to embark on this unique opportunity to partner with the Pelican Intl team and my new partners to create sustainable growth, transform the paddlesport industry, and leverage our manufacturing capabilities,” Lavoie concluded.
Pelican Intl Inc. is headquartered in Laval, Québec, Canada, and will continue manufacturing in Laval, Salaberry-de-Valleyfield, Québec, Canada, and Greenville, South Carolina.
Cain Lamarre acted as legal advisor for the acquisition, while Woods LLP served as legal counsel for matters related to the CCAA proceedings.
Images courtesy Pelican Intl, Inc.
