Fishing and Watercraft divisions continue to shine for Johnson Outdoors

The fishing and Watercraft divisions at global outdoor leisure products supplier, Johnson Outdoors, helped the group to another impressive set of figures.

This morning it reported a 29% increase in sales for the first quarter of the year ended January 1. Revenue for the period was $165.7m compared to $128.1m in the same comparable quarter last year.

“Strong demand in the company’s Fishing, Watercraft Recreation and Camping businesses delivered an unprecedented first fiscal quarter,” said Helen Johnson-Leipold, Chairman and CEO. “Indications are that people’s eagerness to get outdoors will continue through the season, but the COVID-19 pandemic still brings uncertainty. We are focused on working hard to keep pace with demand and leveraging our market-leading brands and innovation to maximise the heightened interest in outdoor recreation.”

Strong demand for new and core technologies across all fishing brands drove a 28% increase in revenue for the division, while Watercraft and camping sales also grew significantly across all product categories.

Total company operating profit came in at $23.6m for the first quarter compared to $6.8m in the same comparable period last year.

“Looking ahead, we will continue to manage the risks associated with current global supply chain pressures and related logistics constraints caused by the COVID-19 pandemic as we work to fill demand,” said David W. Johnson, Chief Financial Officer. “Furthermore, our debt-free balance sheet and healthy cash position provides a competitive advantage as we make smart investments to strengthen the business and drive value for shareholders for the long-term.’