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Pearl iZUMI Brand Has New Owner

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Investment firm Norwest Equity Partners (NEP) has acquired United Sports Brands and its portfolio of sporting goods and active lifestyle brands for an undisclosed sum. The transaction, which closed on Nov. 20, was for six brands including Pearl Izumi, Shock Doctor, McDavid, Cutters, Nathan and Glukos that are currently sold in more than 65 countries. Pearl iZUMI designs and produces performance apparel and footwear for cyclists.

NEP’s ties to UBS dates to 2008 when it acquired Shock Doctor and worked with its CEO Tony Armand over a six-year period to enhance the brand positioning in the performance and protective equipment. Bregal Partners purchased Shock Doctor from NEP and subsequently transformed into United Sports Brands after expanding its portfolio via acquisitions. Armand joined NEP as a partner in 2018 and will again be able to utilize his experience and consumer products knowledge to grow USB’s portfolio of brands.