Bass Pro buys Ranger

[Pat K]

Did every one see who the new owner of Ranger, Stratos & Triton is? Here's part of the press release.

"Bass Pro Shops founder and CEO Johnny Morris said, “We’re excited about the association with these iconic brands. Ranger Boats founder Forrest Wood has been a longtime friend and someone who has made a tremendous impact on our industry. We look forward to building on such a rich history.”

According to Mr. Morris, after the transaction closes Fishing Holdings’ portfolio will continue to operate from its Flippin, Arkansas headquarters under the leadership of existing local management which boasts more than four decades of experience. He said the new partnership not only joins some of the industry’s most respected brands, but also provides greater stability and growth opportunities for Fishing Holdings’ independent dealer base.

“The business will continue to be operated independently by the same management team that has led it for many years,” added Mr. Morris. “Our goal is to provide the products and services necessary to fuel our collective growth.”

[JohnMickish]

Everything is supposed to stay the same, with the existing management staying in place. It's a good move for Bass Pro if they want to see how to increase the quality of their boats, or maybe they want to keep them the way they are in the price range and still have a high end quality line for sale as well. The only looser I can possibly see in this is Cabelas.

[BoxMN]

This means I will never own a Ranger, Stratos or Triton. Not a BPS fan, at all, as a former vendor.