Pelican Intl, Inc. has acquired of The KL Companies, Inc. (KL Outdoor), parent of the Sun Dolphin, Evoke, and Outta Site outdoor brands, said to mark a milestone in the execution of its North America growth plan.
This acquisition “brings together complementary brand portfolios, manufacturing capabilities and distribution networks, offering the industry a comprehensive product ecosystem across all price tiers—for retailers and consumers,” said Pelican in a media release.
Beyond increased capacity, the transaction “strengthens Pelican’s ability to operate with greater agility in a rapidly evolving market. The addition of KL Outdoor’s Michigan operations also enhances Pelican’s North American footprint, enabling a more balanced and resilient supply chain, faster and more reliable fulfillment and greater flexibility in responding to demand,” the company continued.
“This acquisition is a key step in executing our long-term vision,” said Danick Lavoie, president and CEO of Pelican Intl, Inc. “Our success is built on the dedication and skill of our people, and we are proud to welcome the KL Outdoor team. Together, we are creating more than just scale—we are strengthening our footprint, allowing us to consolidate our leadership in paddlesports and accelerate our expansion into new outdoor categories. We are now positioned to deliver unmatched choice and value through an integrated manufacturing network spanning the U.S. and Canada.”
With over 550 employees and the addition of extrusion, thermoformed and rotomolded manufacturing capabilities centrally located in Michigan, Pelican stated it “is now uniquely positioned to grow the category, strengthen its position with retail partners, and unlock new growth opportunities across consumer and industrial segments.”
“Joining Pelican marks an exciting new chapter for our team,” said Dave Baun, vice president and general manager of KL Outdoor. “Our Michigan team’s dedication lives on, and together, we are part of a stronger organization with the scale to grow the category and create lasting value.”
Headquartered in Laval, Québec, Canada, since 1968, Pelican Intl, Inc. is a manufacturer of recreational and performance paddlesports and outdoor equipment formed by the May 2025 merger of the former Pelican International and Confluence businesses. The company’s consumer brands include Pelican, Catch, Wilderness Systems, Perception, Dagger, Sun Dolphin, Evoke, and Outta Site.
Founded in 1982 in Muskegon, Michigan, KL Outdoor said it employs over 140 employees across its advanced extrusion, thermoforming and roto molding facilities. It manufactures affordable recreational watercraft, hunting blinds and sleds under the Sun Dolphin, Evoke and Outta Site brands.
Image courtesy Pelican Intl, Inc. / Confluence Outdoor
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