Cascadia Capital LLC advised ACK on the transaction. In addition to Digital Fuel Capital, Bay Capital Partners, Eagle Private Capital, MB Financial and Pine Street Capital provided financing for the transaction. The Austin Canoe & Kayak and Summit Sports deal was backed by investment firm, Digital Fuel Capital LLC. Louis-based outdoor retailer, purchased The Pathfinder, a specialty outdoor store in Manhattan, KS, increasing its store count to five in three states - Missouri, Kansas and Illinois. It now covers five states with 11 locations. 30, 2015, Backwoods opened a new location in Bentonville, Ark. Previous recent examples include Backwoods acquiring specialty outdoor shops Neptune Mountaineering in Boulder, CO, and Dynamic Earth in Springfield, MO in 20, respectively. “We are looking forward to the next chapter for ACK, and in particular what it will offer our customers, employees, vendors and partners.” “In just 10 years, we grew ACK from a small mom and pop shop with two employees to one of the largest specialty paddlesports retailers in the country.” -Peter MessanaĪs specialty outdoor retailers look to compete against larger chains, e-commerce and direct-to-consumer business models - or in some cases, transition with succession planning - an increasing number of independent shops are teaming up with like-minded stores to merge and grow, while remaining true to their specialty core. “In just 10 years, we grew ACK from a small mom and pop shop with two employees to one of the largest specialty paddlesports retailers in the country,” Peter Messana said. “It is exciting to see these two companies become one, and Summit Sports is looking forward to expanding and innovating with ACK to continue bringing the best in specialty outdoor sports to consumers.” “Summit Sports and Austin Kayak are a natural fit and will build upon and grow on each other’s expertise to create a symbiotic and successful business,” Kopitz said. Summit Sports Founder and CEO Steve Kopitz will shift to become chairman board.

Peter Messana will serve as CEO of the business, while Steve Messana will be vice president of merchandising. Peter and Steve Messana, co-owners of Austin Canoe & Kayak will retain equity ownership in the combined entity under the Summit Sports LLC name.

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