BRG Sports Inc, a maker of sports equipment, sportswear and accessories, has agreed to sell its Action Sports division to Vista Outdoor Inc for US$400 million. The deal, expected to close within 60 days, is in cash with an earn-out tied to future performance. The business being sold to Vista comprises some of BRG’s leading brands, including the Bell, Giro, Blackburn and C-Preme. Scotts Valley, Calif.-based BRG said the deal will allow the company to pay down its debt, strengthen its balance sheet, and pursue growth initiatives focused on its Riddell brand. Fenway Partners and Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan (OTPP) will maintain their investments in BRG, the company said.
PRESS RELEASE
BRG Sports Reaches Agreement to Sell Action Sports Business to Vista Outdoor for $400 Million in Cash Plus an Earn-out
Market Leading Brands – Bell, Giro, Blackburn and C-Preme – Will Join Vista Outdoor’s Growing Outdoor Products Business
February 25, 2016
SCOTTS VALLEY, Calif.–(BUSINESS WIRE)–BRG Sports, Inc. (“BRG Sports” or “the Company”), a leading designer, developer and marketer of branded sports equipment, protective products and related accessories, today announced that it has entered into an agreement with Vista Outdoor, Inc. (“Vista Outdoor”) (NYSE: VSTO) under which Vista Outdoor will acquire the Action Sports business (including the Bell, Giro, Blackburn and C-Preme brands) for $400 million in cash plus an earn-out related to the future performance of the powersports business and subject to a customary working capital adjustment. Vista Outdoor is a leading global designer, manufacturer and marketer in the growing outdoor sports and recreation markets. The divesture is expected to close in the next 30-60 days, subject to normal regulatory approvals.
“We are very proud of our employees and the strong cycling, snow and powersports business we’ve built. The Bell and Giro brands have set the standard for innovation and excellence for many years,” said BRG Sports Executive Chairman and CEO Terry Lee. “We are confident that this business will continue to excel and serve as an industry leader under Vista Outdoor ownership.”
BRG Sports will apply the proceeds from the transaction to pay down debt, strengthen the Company’s balance sheet and pursue strategic growth initiatives that will benefit its most recognizable remaining brand, Riddell. Riddell is a premier designer and developer of protective sports equipment including helmets and shoulder pads, and apparel and related accessories.
BRG Sports’ current owners, Fenway Partners Capital Fund II and Fund III, and Ontario Teachers’ Pension Plan, will maintain their investments in the Company.
Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC acted as sole financial advisor, and Ropes & Gray, LLC acted as legal advisor to the Company in connection with the transaction.
About BRG Sports
BRG Sports is a leading designer, developer and marketer of branded sports equipment, protective products and related accessories. The company markets and licenses products under such well-known brands as Bell, Riddell, Giro, Blackburn, Raskullz and Krash!. Its products incorporate leading technology and designs and are used by professional athletes and enthusiasts alike. Headquartered in Scotts Valley, California, the company has facilities worldwide. More information is available at: www.brgsports.com.
Contacts
BRG Sports Media:
Erin Griffin, 224-585-5231
eegriffin@brgsports.com
Photo courtesy of BRG Sports Inc
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