Pelican International, Inc has acquired a majority stake in GSI Outdoors. The acquisition is part of Pelican’s push to diversify its offering in the North American and international outdoor market.
Terms were not disclosed.
“The acquisition of GSI Outdoors, our third since 2019, allows us to pursue our ambition to be an eco-friendly leader in the outdoor equipment sector by investing in a portfolio of renowned brands that respond to the growing desire of the population to connect more with nature. While our last acquisitions consolidated our leading position in the paddle sports, fishing boats and nautical accessories sector, the integration of GSI Outdoors into our fold allows us to diversify our activities and make a remarkable entry into a sector that has shown sustained growth for several years, which is expected to be maintained for the years to come,” said Danick Lavoie, president and CEO, Pelican International, headquartered in Québec, Canada.
GSI Outdoors, based in Spokane, WA, has designed and distributed outdoor cooking and hydration products for more than 37 years.
“It was our love of the outdoors and our desire to provide quality products that motivated us to found GSI Outdoors in 1985. Today, our commitment remains the same, and, in Pelican International, we have found the perfect partner to take the company to the next level,” said Don, Ian, and Kathy Scott, co-founders of GSI Outdoors. Don and Ian will remain with the company.
“Pelican intends to quickly leverage the reputation, distribution channels as well as the supply and innovation capabilities of both companies to offer more to our retailers and meet the expectations and aspirations of camping, fishing and paddling enthusiasts,” concluded Lavoie.
As GSI Outdoors joins the Pelican Group of companies, the company will now have more than 1,100 employees. Pelican International makes kayaks, canoes, pedal boats, stand-up paddleboards (SUPs), fishing boats, and watersport accessories. Brands include Pelican, Wilderness Systems, Perception, Dagger, Mad River Canoe, Harmony Gear, Advanced Elements, Adventure Technology, and Boardworks.
Photo courtesy GSI Outdoors
