Pacifica LTM, parent company of Mountainsmith and Blackstone Investment Group of Springfield, Misso., have merged together. Under terms of the agreement, Pacificas five operating companies, including Mountainsmith, and Blackstones four divisions will merge under the umbrella of Blackstone Investment Group. The joint announcement was made by Pacifica owner and president, Greg Thomsen, and Blackstone Investment Group CEO, David Henderson.
Under terms of the agreement, Thomsen will assume the title of Corporate President in charge of the five Pacifica companies and will participate as an owner within the investment group. The operating companies will continue under their current names of Mountainsmith, Youngstown Equipment, Detours, Body Glove Bags, and 105 Meridien. Henderson will assume the role of CEO for all Blackstone divisions, which also include Carry Gear, Luggage Works, Crew Outfitters and Logo Solutions.
Mountainsmith will continue to be headquartered in Golden, Colorado. This is important for a brand with a rich mountain culture and heritage, one that benefits from the Rocky Mountain testing grounds literally right outside the front door.
“Pacifica and Blackstone share a common business philosophy. Both companies are interested in the outdoor business and are committed to long-term brand building,” commented Thomsen. “All divisions will benefit by combining their strengths and merge into a much stronger company with greatly increased revenues and infrastructures.” Henderson went on to comment that, “Blackstones three divisions are all related to luggage and to carry gear. This will enhance Mountainsmiths ability to expand their innovative Travel Storage category as well as their luggage line. Our long term interest, however, is not just expansion of the bottom line. We realize that we need to take care of our employees and our retailer base and build a partnership that will assure the long term success for all involved.”
