Deal Details

Rapala Acquires Stake in 13 Fishing

Consumer

Rapala acquisition of minority stake in 13 Fishing

Summary

Rapala VMC Corporation ("Rapala" or the "Company") acquired 49% of DQC International Corp, owner of 13 Fishing Rod and Reel ("13 Fishing"). Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

Baird served as exclusive financial advisor to Rapala VMC Corporation on this transaction.

About

Rapala VMC Corporation is a leading fishing tackle company and the global market leader in fishing lures, treble hooks and fishing-related knives and tools. The Company also has a strong position in other fishing categories and is one of the leading distributors of outdoor, hunting and winter sport products in the Nordic countries. Rapala has the largest distribution network in the industry. Its main manufacturing facilities are located in Finland, France, Estonia, Russia, Indonesia and the U.K. Rapala's brand portfolio includes Rapala, the leading brand in the industry, as well as other global brands including VMC, Sufix, Storm, Blue Fox, Luhr Jensen, Williamson, Dynamite Baits, Mora Ice, StrikeMaster, Marttiini and Peltonen. The Company employs approximately 2,700 people in 42 countries. Rapala VMC Corporation is listed and traded on the Nasdaq Helsinki stock exchange.

DQC International Corp was established in 2012 by James Coble and two other minority shareholders. It is known in the U.S. for its 13 Fishing-branded rods and reels. 13 Fishing won Best in Category awards at 2017 and 2018 ICAST and is recognized as one of the fastest-growing rod and reel brands in U.S. consumer panel studies. DQC International Corp is based in Clearwater, Florida.

Consumer

Rapala acquisition of minority stake in 13 Fishing