HEAD Group, a leading global sports equipment company, entered into exclusive discussions regarding the potential acquisition of 100% of Aqualung Group.
The contemplated transaction, which is subject to regulatory approvals and due legal process, would significantly strengthen HEAD’s presence in the Water Sports segment, which has great potential. Building on its existing portfolio in Winter Sports, Racquet Sports, Sportswear, and Water Sports, HEAD would significantly expand its brand portfolio beyond its established Water Sports brands that include MARES, SSI, rEvo, liveaboard.com and Zoggs.
Founded in 1943 following the invention of the ‘aqua-lung’ by Captain Jacques-Yves Cousteau and engineer Émile Gagnan, Aqualung Group is a pioneer with an unrivalled history and is a global reference in scuba diving equipment. Its products are distributed in over 90 countries and are trusted by both recreational divers and military and professional operators for critical missions.
The contemplated acquisition aims to create a world-class leader in the global Water Sports market, uniting two iconic players driven by safety, technical excellence, innovation, comfort and design, performance, and passion for sport and aquatic exploration.
HEAD intends to maintain and develop the Aqualung Group and to reinforce its strategic and growing military and professional division.
HEAD also plans to build on Aqualung Group’s production capabilities to support the global production and distribution of premium products. The combined expertise of the two companies would generate strong synergies, accelerate market leadership, and open new opportunities to broaden access to water sports worldwide.
MARES was acquired by HEAD in 1971 and has evolved into a market leading brand in the scuba diving sector with innovative products. SSI was acquired by HEAD in 2014 becoming the #1 diving certifier in Europe and has more than doubled in revenues since its acquisition. ZOGGS, a swim brand born in Australia was acquired by HEAD in 2020 and has since seen significant international growth taking advantage of HEAD’s global network.
Victor Vadaneaux has been appointed CEO of Aqualung Group to ensure a smooth transition and integration. He has been a member of the Supervisory Board of the group and an advisor to the company since last year.
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