Pelican Products Inc. Acquires Hardigg Industries

Jan. 26, 2009
Transaction believed to be the largest acquisition in the history of the protective case industry.

LOS ANGELES – Pelican Products Inc., a manufacturer of plastic injection molded protective cases, announces the acquisition of South Deerfield, MA-based Hardigg Industries, a manufacturer of roto molded protective cases. The transaction, valued at approximately $200 million, is believed to be the largest acquisition in the history of the protective case industry. Pelican Products was supported in the acquisition by the New York and San Francisco based private equity group Behrman Capital.

"I am extremely excited to conclude this acquisition and to put two global organizations together combining their respective strengths," says Lyndon Faulkner, president and CEO, Pelican Products Inc.

Collectively, the new entity will employ more than 1,500 people. Pelican Products will operate in 12 countries, have 22 offices globally, and maintain six manufacturing locations throughout Europe and North America.

The Hardigg brand name will continue to identify the company’s high-end roto molded shipping cases, leveraging the brand recognition of Hardigg.

"The reputation of the Hardigg brand and quality of its products, people and processes make it an ideal partner," says Faulkner. "By bringing together the world’s largest roto molded case manufacturer with the world’s largest injection molded case manufacturer, the greatest beneficiary is the customer. As a result of our new partnership, Pelican will offer customers an unrivaled product range, all from a single source."

"The manufacturing strengths of Pelican and Hardigg create a strong combined selling model and market synergy," says General Peter Pace USMC (Ret.), chairman of Pelican. "The acquisition enables us to enhance offerings to our core customers, including the military, while continuing to expand our footprint with other important customer segments."

"By joining the Pelican family we can offer more opportunities to employees, expand our product line and enhance our global reputation," says Jamie Hardigg, chairman of Hardigg Industries. "We’re excited that the combination of our companies creates a global industry leader well poised for continued growth."

Hardigg plans to cease his day-to-day management responsibilities, but will serve as a member of the Board of Directors for Pelican Products.

John Padian will continue to manage the Pelican organization as COO of Pelican Products and Bill Hamer will continue as COO of Hardigg Industries. Both will report to Faulkner.