Foundation Outdoor steps up European expansion

Foundation Outdoor Group, the world’s leading supplier of rod building components, supplies, equipment and instruction, is taking a significant stride in its global expansion with the establishment of a European headquarters in Halmstad, Sweden.

The move comes less than three months after the acquisition of American Tackle and Mud Hole Custom Tackle.

The newly formed subsidiary, Foundation Outdoor Group Europe AB, will spearhead sales and distribution efforts across Europe and beyond. Heading the international initiative is V.P. of Operations Gary Benney, who previously served as the European Branch Manager at American Tackle.

Brook Oliva, President and COO of Foundation Outdoor Group, said: “This expansion is indicative of our commitment to grow the global presence of Foundation Outdoor Group. We’re excited to bring Gary on board to lead this international effort. He has a wealth of international business experience and an entrepreneurial spirit that fits perfectly with our leadership team and our assertive growth strategy.”

In support of Foundation Outdoor Group Europe AB’s mission, the company has acquired a new European headquarters building located in the strategic port city of Halmstad. The 2,100 square metre (22,604 square feet) facility is ideally positioned to facilitate international distribution and access to intermodal distribution channels within the European continent.

The headquarters will serve as a showcase for Foundation Outdoor Group’s extensive range of fishing and outdoor recreation product lines, housing executive and sales offices, a showroom, and a state-of-the-art warehouse and distribution centre.

Benney said: “The new headquarters facility is in an ideal location and has everything we need to support our European growth initiatives. Foundation Outdoor Group’s development plans are both strategic and aggressive, and I am looking forward to driving our business and supporting anglers and our industry across Europe.”

With the acquisition completed, Oliva and Benney are now implementing all of the operational necessities to ensure a successful launch of the European operation, including IT systems, inventory delivery and management and staffing.

Above picture: Gary Benney (left) and Foundation Outdoor Group CEO, Tom McNamara.