Pelican International Inc., a Canadian manufacturer kayaks, canoes, SUPs and other watercraft, announced Monday it has acquired Greenville, SC-based boat maker Confluence Outdoor LLC. Financial terms of the deal weren’t disclosed.
With this acquisition, Laval, Quebec-based Pelican now offers the most comprehensive assortment of paddle sports equipment in the industry, from premium brands to more accessible and reliable products.
“The entire Pelican team, my brother Christian and I are thrilled to welcome the Confluence team in the Pelican family,” said Antoine Élie, co-founder of Pelican International. “The combination of the two businesses will produce by far the largest and most comprehensive group in the paddle sports space. This paddle sports powerhouse will offer, under the best brands, a complete line-up of products spanning all paddle sports categories, catering to the needs of all types of consumers. As always, our primary focus is the satisfaction of our products’ users.”
“The acquisition aims to capitalize on the strengths and capabilities of two synergistic businesses and brands, from the products that make their success to the people that make them shine, in a consolidating and globalizing industry,” said Danick Lavoie, president and CEO of Pelican International. “With more than 800 employees in three manufacturing sites strategically located in North America, an improved distribution network and a strong commitment to innovation, the momentum behind both brands is stronger than ever. Starting today, our team members, retailers and paddle sports enthusiasts from all backgrounds will be put at the forefront of our strategy in order to unlock our full potential and to continue to execute our growth plan.”
Todd King, vice president of marketing at Confluence Outdoor, said, “Pelican and Confluence are the ideal fit. It’s the optimal union of two industry leaders poised to drive innovation and serve consumers better than ever before. This is very powerful as a force for good for the industry and consumers in general.”
Reed Smith LLP served as legal counsel to Pelican, and Nexsen Pruet LLC served as legal counsel to Confluence in the transaction.
