Simms to Anchor New Platform in the Fishing Category Within Vista Outdoor’s Outdoor Products Portfolio
Acquisition Strengthens Vista Outdoor with Twelfth Power Brand, Adds Approximately $110 Million in Net Sales
ANOKA, Minn., July 27, 2022 /PRNewswire/ — Vista Outdoor Inc. (NYSE: VSTO), the parent company of 39 renowned brands that design, manufacture and market sporting and outdoor products to consumers around the globe, today announced the acquisition of Simms Fishing Products for a purchase price of $192.5 million. The gross purchase price includes a net present value of roughly $20 million in future tax benefits. Simms is a premium fishing brand and leading designer, marketer and manufacturer of waders, outerwear, footwear and technical apparel.
Headquartered in Bozeman, Mont., Simms was founded in 1980 and later acquired in 1993 by K.C. Walsh, its current Executive Chairman. Walsh’s initial vision for Simms was to create the most beloved brand in sport fishing that could marry his passion for fishing with his commitment to fisheries conservation. This vision has endured as Simms is now one of the most highly innovative fishing gear and apparel companies and a purpose-driven brand that resonates with consumers across the globe. The company’s products are used by more than 8,500 Simms-sponsored fishing professionals and are distributed through specialty retail stores, both domestically and internationally, and directly to consumers through simmsfishing.com. Fishing continues to be a popular and highly accessible activity, with more than 55 million fishing participants in the United States alone.
“Simms is the perfect fit for our diversified portfolio of leading, iconic outdoor brands,” said Chris Metz, Vista Outdoor CEO. “Simms broadens our core addressable market into the highly attractive fishing category with a premium, innovative brand with significant room for growth. Simms will be a central plank in our long-term growth strategy and will be the…
