Shimano: ‘JACKALL will strengthen competitiveness of lure business’

Shimano has outlined its reasons for acquiring JACKALL, saying the move will strengthen the competitiveness of its lure business while preserving the brand’s independent product development approach and distinctive identity.

The acquisition brings together JACKALL’s expertise and talent in lure design with Shimano’s wider business platform and capabilities across the global tackle market.

In an exclusive interview with Angling International, a spokesman for Shimano said the decision was driven by the potential to build greater overall competitiveness across its reels, rods and lure categories. JACKALL’s particular strengths, it said, lies in its deep lure-business knowledge, product development capability and highly recognisable brand character.

The companies’ established relationship was also central to the deal. Shimano and JACKALL entered a business partnership in 2010, with Shimano historically distributing JACKALL lures in the North American market. “That relationship, and the mutual understanding developed over more than a decade, were key factors in making the acquisition possible,” said Shimano.

For now, Shimano does not expect a major change in JACKALL’s direction. “The brand will retain its independence and continue to follow its own product development strategy, while maintaining the qualities that have made it distinctive among anglers.”

Shimano also said there are currently no specific plans to alter existing distribution arrangements. Instead, it sees the combined business creating a stronger overall product portfolio, offering greater value to anglers and supporting deeper, longer-term customer relationships.

Looking ahead over the next two to five years, JACKALL is expected to continue building on its existing strengths: developing distinctive lure products and serving the customers who value the brand’s individual approach.

Jason Livermore, President of Shimano North America Fishing welcomed the JACKALL acquisition. He said: “Shimano has always been driven by a commitment to innovation, quality, and helping anglers get more out of every day on the water. JACKALL brings a distinctive approach to product development and a strong connection with anglers. We see significant opportunity in bringing our capabilities together.”