Confluence Outdoor announced that it has acquired Boardworks, a surf and stand up paddle board company based in Carlsbad, Calif. Boardworks’ product line includes paddle boards, surf boards, paddles, and accessories under the Boardworks brand name as well as Infinity, Badfish, Morrelli & Melvin, Hynson, Strive, and Hansen.
“We have been carefully and patiently watching the SUP market since it emerged as a growth category in our industry several years ago,” said Sue Rechner, President and CEO of Confluence Outdoor. “We knew SUP would be an integral part of our strategic plan, and we have enjoyed watching the success of Boardworks as we worked towards entering this category. Boardworks has established itself as a true leader and innovator and we are excited to welcome them into the Confluence family of brands. We know this new partnership will provide an even more well-rounded set of offerings to our consumers and will enhance our ability to foster passion and enthusiasm for outdoor adventure.”
Boardworks’ operations will continue business as usual for now at their Carlsbad campus, said Confluence executives. The management teams from both Boardworks and Confluence will work together on a plan to determine the best ways to optimize the strengths of each organization to achieve future goals. Mike Fox, Owner of Boardworks, will be staying on to consult and help ensure a smooth transition.
“We are thrilled to join Confluence Outdoor’s outstanding portfolio of brands,” said Fox. “I am so proud of the achievements we’ve realized as an independent Boardworks brand, and I know that with the support of a powerhouse like Confluence, we can achieve more success to better serve our partners and customers.”
This acquisition is the first since J.H. Whitney acquired Confluence in 2014. With the support of J.H. Whitney, Confluence Outdoor announced a plan to grow the business into a full-service outdoor recreation company, with stand up paddle boarding being a key component of this plan.
Moss Adams Capital, LLC acted as financial advisor and Procopio, Cory, Hargreaves & Savitch LLP acted as legal advisor to Boardworks.
