VF Outdoor Negotiates to Acquire Eagle Creek Brand

VF Outdoor Inc., a subsidiary of VF Corporation, is in negotiation to acquire Eagle Creek Inc., a supplier of adventure travel gear, including accessories, luggage, daypacks and other products. Founded in 1975, Eagle Creek currently has annual sales of approximately $30 million. Eagle Creek brand products are sold in the United States through 700 outdoor specialty and 300 luggage specialty accounts. The brand is also sold in Europe and in other international markets through distributors and licensees. Terms were not disclosed, and closing of the transaction is subject to customary government approvals and other conditions. Closing is expected to occur within 30 days. "We're excited at the prospect of adding the industry's authentic outdoor travel brand to our existing portfolio of outstanding brands," says Dave Gatto, president of VF Outdoor, Inc. "Growth in the travel category is outpacing growth of the total outdoor business, and we expect this to continue given the desirability of travel among both baby boomers and Gen Y consumers."