Pelican International Inc, a leader in paddle sports, has acquired a majority stake in GSI Outdoors, a leader in the outdoor equipment industry. The transaction marks a major step in the growth of Pelican, which is building on a foundation to diversify its offering in the North American and international outdoor market.
“The acquisition of GSI Outdoors, our third since 2019, allows us to pursue our ambition to be an eco-friendly leader in the outdoor equipment sector by investing in a portfolio of renowned brands that respond to the growing desire of the population to connect more with nature,” said Danick Lavoie, president and CEO of Pelican International.
With a 50-year history, the Quebec-based family business has carved out a place in the hearts of outdoor and water sports enthusiasts. Pelican International has met its desire to expand its offer to nature lovers by getting out of the water and accompanying them around the picnic table thanks to another family business, GSI Outdoors, and its innovative camping equipment and accessories.
Based in Spokane, Washington, USA, GSI Outdoors has been designing and distributing quality outdoor cooking and hydration products for the outdoors for over 37 years.
According to the North American Camping Report 2021, the growth prospects for the outdoor and camping market were excellent, long before the pandemic, which has caused an unprecedented craze for outdoor activities and products.
“Pelican intends to quickly leverage the reputation, distribution channels as well as the supply and innovation capabilities of both companies to offer more to our retailers, and meet the expectations and aspirations of camping, fishing and paddling enthusiasts,” Lavoie said.
As GSI Outdoors joins the Pelican Group of companies, the Laval-based company will have more than 1,100 employees in North America, revenues in the hundreds of millions of dollars, and a portfolio of well-established companies and brands.
