Italy-based The Oberalp Group, which owns Salewa, Dynafit, Pomoca and Wild Country, has acquired American climbing shoe brand Evolv from BRS Outdoor Holdings, an investment platform of BRS & Co. Oberalp plans to invest in the Evolv brand for growth in the U.S and Canada and to use the strength of Oberalp’s international distribution to grow the brand in Europe and Asia, said the company.
Evolv was founded in 2003 by Brian Chung. As the founder and long-time product manager, Chung will remain with the brand in L.A. and continue to play a crucial role in product and brand management, said the announcement of the merger. Chung will also continue to oversee Evolv’s athlete team.
“I am extremely honored and excited for Evolv to become part of the Oberalp Group and look forward to strong global growth in the future,” Chung said. “I have always had the highest respect for the Oberalp Group of brands for making industry-leading product and for the company’s commitment to sustainability which are values that Evolv shares. In addition to our focus on creating the best climbing footwear, Evolv will also continue in our mission to make a positive impact in the climbing community through our various initiatives and organizations that we support.
Evolv will remain headquartered in Los Angeles, Calif.
“The addition of Evolv allows us to offer a complete solution for rock climbers when paired with our Wild Country brand, an international leader in technical climbing hardware,” said Ruth Oberrauch, a member of the owner family of the Oberalp Group, explaining the acquisition of the brand.
“We only do what we understand and are enthusiastic about. And that is the mountain, even in the form of a climbing hall,” said Christoph Engl, CEO of the Oberalp Group. “Our approach is focused on one theme – mountain sports. This is why the Evolv brand fits so well into Oberalp’s brand strategy. The acquisition of Evolv – with a clear focus on climbing shoes and a leadership position in its segment – was a logical step.”
“We are excited to work with Brian and the Evolv team to elevate the brand at home in the U.S. and Canada, as well as abroad,” said Drew Saunders, general manager of Oberalp North America. “With the strength and momentum of the brand paired with the value that we can add through our existing infrastructure and team, there is great potential for Evolv as the newest member of the Oberalp house of brands.”
