Yakima, a maker of recreational cargo management solutions and outdoor specialty products, announced Thursday that it has completed an asset acquisition of Road Shower, the on-vehicle outdoor recreation water transport system. Financial terms of the deal weren’t disclosed.
Through the acquisition, Yakima will take ownership of Road Shower’s intellectual property and existing inventory as it works to transition production to its own facilities.
“We are thrilled to add Road Shower’s proven products to our ever-growing portfolio of industry-leading racks, cargo boxes, and outdoor specialty equipment,” said Yakima CEO Ryan Martin. “Road Shower is a natural fit for us in that it fulfills specific needs for a wide range of Yakima customers and facilitates greater enjoyment of the outdoors.”
Following on the heels of the launch or expansion of several key categories for Yakima—including Truck, Basecamp, and Sportsman—Road Shower offers utility and versatility to adventure campers, anglers, surfers, bikers, kayakers, and anyone who wants to keep their gear, their vehicles, and themselves clean while out in the wild.
“After four years of exploring options with Yakima, I couldn’t be happier to hand the Road Shower reins to such a forward-thinking, innovative group of people,” said Road Shower founder Joel Cotton. “I take comfort in knowing that the products I put so much into developing and bringing to market are now in such capable hands.”
Cotton began work on the first-generation Road Shower in 2007 after a frustrating experience trying to clean up with a solar shower after a long day of riding Utah’s White Rim Trail. In fact, Cotton mounted his very first Road Shower to a Yakima bike rack for transport. Fast forward 12 years and Road Shower is now in its fourth iteration, available in 4-, 7-, and 10-gallon capacities.
“One of the things that drew us to Road Shower, aside from its quality, is the entrepreneurial spirit that went into its development,” said Jonny Wood, Yakima Product Manager, Automotive & Expansions. “Yakima came from humble beginnings, too, founded in a Yakima Valley machine shop some 40 years ago. We’re big fans of Joel and his vision and are excited to continue his great work.”
Road Shower will be available for purchase at Yakima.com beginning December 12.
