Dickies makes Canadian move

01/04/2008

Work apparel brand Dickies has moved to acquire Canadian work and outdoor footwear maker Kodiak.

Financial terms of the deal weren't disclosed.

Toronto-based Kodiak will become an affiliate of Fort Worth-based Dickies and maintain its brand names, licencing programme and stores. Kodiak makes Kodiak and Terra-brand boots, including safety footwear and casual footwear. It also licenses apparel and accessories and owns Terra Footwear. In addition, the company operates Work Authority stores in Canada.

"The Kodiak and Dickies brands are complementary—both are rich in heritage and resonate with durability and quality," said Kevin Huckle, president of Kodiak Group Holdings, in a statement.

"This acquisition continues our North American and global growth strategy, which in part includes identifying brands and products that mirror the values and authenticity of Dickies," said Philip Williamson, chief executive of Dickies. "Kodiak is a natural addition to Dickies and will allow us to expand our offerings to meet the needs of our core customers."

Kodiak will continue to manufacture and distribute its footwear and apparel through its existing channels.