Pelican International Acquires KL Outdoor, Strengthening North American Paddlesports Leadership

Pelican International Inc., a major player in the North American paddlesports market, has announced the acquisition of The KL Companies, Inc. (KL Outdoor) of Muskegon, Michigan. This strategic move marks a significant milestone in Pelican's plan to build the most integrated and resilient paddlesports platform in North America. According to the press release, the acquisition will allow Pelican to accelerate its growth strategy and solidify its position as the leading paddlesports provider in the region. KL Outdoor, a prominent manufacturer of kayaks, canoes, and other paddlesports equipment, will now be part of Pelican's expansive portfolio. 'This acquisition represents an important step forward in our strategic plan to create the most comprehensive paddlesports platform in North America,' said Pelican's CEO, Jean Grégoire. 'By bringing KL Outdoor into the Pelican family, we will be able to leverage our combined strengths, resources, and expertise to better serve our customers and drive innovation in the industry.' The move comes as the paddlesports market continues to experience strong growth, driven by increased outdoor recreation and a heightened interest in water-based activities. By consolidating its position in this thriving segment, Pelican aims to capitalize on these favorable market trends and solidify its status as a dominant force in the North American paddlesports landscape. 'We are excited to join the Pelican team and contribute to the company's ambitious growth strategy,' said KL Outdoor's CEO, Mark Hoffman. 'Together, we will be able to offer an even more comprehensive range of products and services to our customers, while also exploring new opportunities for innovation and expansion.' The financial details of the acquisition were not disclosed, but the transaction is expected to close in the coming weeks, subject to customary closing conditions.