Jackson Kayak Expands Portfolio With Eddyline Acquisition
Deal News | Feb 14, 2025 | EIN
Jackson Kayak has announced the acquisition of Eddyline Kayaks, a renowned manufacturer of thermoformed touring kayaks, in a strategic move to enhance its lineup with newer, lightweight offerings. Eddyline, originally rooted in whitewater kayak production, shifted its focus to thermoformed touring and sea kayaks from its Seattle base. The acquisition will involve relocating Eddyline's production to Jackson Kayak's extensive facility in Sparta, Tennessee. Jackson Kayak, which specializes in rotomolded whitewater and fishing kayaks, aims to leverage Eddyline's technology and market niche to expand its reach and complement its product offerings. Eddyline's president, Scott Holley, will continue his involvement with the company under the new ownership, focusing on sales. This consolidation promises increased market reach and operational efficiencies for both companies but will see changes in personnel as Jackson Kayak establishes its sales infrastructure. The acquisition marks a step to maintain specialized craftsmanship while avoiding the influence of larger conglomerates less passionate about paddlesports.
Sectors
- Manufacturing
- Sporting Goods
- Consumer Goods
Geography
- United States – The acquisition involves companies based in the U.S. with production moving to Tennessee.
- Washington – Eddyline Kayaks was originally based in Seattle, Washington.
- Tennessee – Jackson Kayak's operations and the new production site for Eddyline are based in Tennessee.
Industry
- Manufacturing – The industry classification of luxury manufacturing due to the production of specialized kayaks.
- Sporting Goods – Relevant due to the focus on kayaking and paddlesport equipment.
- Consumer Goods – Involves products purchased by consumers such as kayaks and related equipment.
Financials
Participants
| Name | Role | Type | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Jackson Kayak | Acquirer | Company | A manufacturer of rotomolded whitewater and fishing kayaks. |
| Eddyline Kayaks | Target Company | Company | A manufacturer known for thermoformed touring kayaks. |
| Emily Jackson | Marketing Director | Person | Marketing Director at Jackson Kayak, providing insights on the acquisition. |
| Scott Holley | President | Person | President of Eddyline Kayaks and will transition to be Head of Sales under Jackson Kayak. |
| Tom and Lisa Derrer | Founders | People | Founders of Eddyline Kayaks who helped establish its origins. |
| Werner Furrer Sr. | Designer | Person | Designed Eddyline's first sea kayak model and has a shared history with the company. |
| Ethan Ebersold | Independent Rep | Person | Long-time independent sales rep for Eddyline Kayaks who will not transition to Jackson Kayak. |