OCTOBER 04, 2005 — Johnson Outdoors added to its portfolio of outdoor recreational brands with Cannon downriggers and Bottomline fishfinders. The brands and assets were acquired in a cash purchase from Computrol of Boise, ID, a wholly owned subsidiary of Armstrong International. The deal, which closed on October 3, reinforces the company’s strategic focus on acquisitions that complement its businesses, have market-leading potential and strengthen profitability.
Cannon and Bottomline brands will be integrated into the existing Marine Electronics Group business unit which includes Minn Kota and Humminbird. The acquisition is expected to be accretive to earnings in FY06.
“Our vision is to own the outdoor adventure, with a clear focus on growth by expanding our markets, our brand equities and our technology horizon through continuous innovation and targeted acquisitions,” said Helen Johnson-Leipold, CEO, Johnson Outdoors. “We invest in the future of our businesses, and by doing so help increase profitability and enhance shareholder value long-term.”
Cannon is the #1 brand of downriggers used on motorized boats for controlled depth fishing. Bottomline is a value brand of fishfinders which includes the popular portable, battery-operated “Fishin’ Buddy” series.
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If you guys recall, Johnson Outdoors (which owns Minn Kota) just bought out Humminbird from Techsonic Industries last year. Looks like they’re on the move again. We’re already seeing some very innovative products such as the new Side Imaging sonar units and I only expect more interesting products to come from this group. For those of you who like to dabble in the markets, you might want buy a few shares. 
NASDAQ: JOUT