Shimano acquires Innovative Textiles

IRVINE, Calif. – Shimano American Corp. has completed its agreement to acquire Innovative Textiles, Inc. – makers of PowerPro braided fishing line – Shimano American President Dave Pfeiffer reported in a recent release.

While maintaining manufacturing operations and staff at its facility in Grand Junction, Colo., Innovative Textiles sales and marketing efforts will be transitioned to Shimano American’s operations in time for the ICAST show this July in Orlando.

“The extensive background that Konrad Krauland and his team at Innovative Textiles have in braiding and textile engineering is one of the key assets of our acquisition,” said Pfeiffer. “Krauland will join our management team as a vice president, focusing on production, coordinating manufacturing and new product development with Shimano offices worldwide.”

Shimano will aggressively market the PowerPro branded products to the international sportfishing market.

“While Konrad and Innovative Textiles have become a leader in braided fishing lines here in the U.S.,” Pfeiffer said, “the connection now with Shimano will allow us to grow the business throughout Asia, Australia, Canada, Europe and Latin America.”

“To be able to make that next big leap, from a strong brand in the U.S. fishing market to one that will have solid global presence, we couldn’t be happier now being part of Shimano American Corporation,” said Krauland. “As we integrate our Grand Junction operations into Shimano’s operation in Irvine and sales offices around the globe, we look forward to working on the next innovations in fishing line technology and other new products over the next years.”

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