Brunswick Corporation has acquired Supra-Industrial Textil, Lda. in Vila Nova de Cerveira, Portugal. The company makes the Valiant brand of rigid inflatable boats (RIBs). Brunswick purchased 49 per cent ownership in Supra-Industrial in 1999, and yesterday said in a statement that it had acquired the remaining 51 per cent. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed.

The company has 150 employees, and manufactures about 3,500 RIBs annually, ranging in length from 2.4 to 12 meters.

It will fall under the auspices of the Brunswick European Group.

"We have been executing a strategy to accelerate growth of our marine businesses in this important region," said George W. Buckley, Brunswick chairman and CEO.

"Ownership of the Valiant brand will enable us to expand distribution beyond the existing dealer network." Buckley noted that the Valiant line would also be sold within the company's European dealer network.

"Valiant brings a strong management team that has delivered above market growth, product innovation, manufacturing expertise and a commitment to quality," said Victoria J. Reich, president of the Brunswick European Group, in the statement. "As part of the BEG family, we will strive to build on that record by expanding distribution and enhancing our product portfolio."

View some of Valiants RIBs

June 2005