Bushnell to acquire Michaels of Oregon

Shooting Industry, Sept, 2005

Bushnell Performance Optics Inc. announced in August it has entered into an agreement to acquire Michaels of Oregon Co. The acquisition broadens the Bushnell product offering in the outdoor market with the addition of the Uncle Mike's, Hoppe's, Butler Creek, Stoney Point, Uncle Mike's Law Enforcement and Blackwater Gear brands.

"Michaels is a market leader within the hunting, shooting and law enforcement product categories and we are excited about how these product lines will complement the Bushnell current offering of premium sports optics products," said Joe Messner, Bushnell president and CEO. "This should be a seamless transition and we do not expect any disruption to the service both companies provide their customers."

With the acquisition, Bushnell will introduce a new corporate name, Bushnell Outdoor Products.

"The similar culture of these two companies, along with their leadership positions in the marketplace, make for a perfect match," said Dennis Pixton, president and CEO of Michaels of Oregon.

Bushnell is a privately held company funded by Wind Point Partners, a private equity investment firm. This acquisition is the fifth in the past five years for Bushnell.