JOHNSON OUTDOORS ACQUIRES ASSETS OF NORTHPORT SYSTEMS
Apr 11, 2016
Johnson Outdoors Inc. has announced the acquisition of the key assets of Northport Systems, Inc., specialists in the development and application of unique digital cartography technologies and solutions. Northport Toronto-based operations will be integrated into the company’s fishing business which manufactures and markets the industry powerhouse Minn Kota® and Humminbird® brands. The parties have agreed that financial terms of the transaction will not be disclosed.
“Innovation is what consumers demand, customers expect and Johnson Outdoors has delivered consistently for nearly 50 years. We are pioneers in fishing electronics – from electric trolling motors…. to wireless remote steering and navigation… to revolutionary Side Imaging® sonar… and more,” said Helen Johnson-Leipold, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. “Our ability to continue to deliver new products that enhance the outdoor recreational experience is critical to our continued success. Northport brings new cartography capabilities which can broaden our innovation horizon, accelerate speed-to-market and further enhance potential for bigger new product success and sustained growth in our global fishing brands.”
The Company has credited strong new product performance for record annual sales and profits in the Minn Kota® brand in fiscal 2015 and behind double-digit growth in its fishing business during this year’s fiscal first quarter. New fishing products this year include the Minn Kota® Ulterra™ for Saltwater, with unique automatic stow and deploy, and the Humminbird® Helix™ series of fishfinders with patented Side Imaging® sonar.
