Columbia Sportswear to acquire China joint venture

Image © Nmioenic

Outdoor goods producer Columbia Sportswear has announced its aim to buy out its joint venture partner operating in China, and therefore take full control of its Chinese subsidiary. Subject to regulatory approval, the agreement is expected to be formally concluded by the beginning of next year.

The joint venture with retail group Swire Resources was established in 2014, with Columbia owning 60 per cent of the equity. Columbia is now looking to acquire the remaining stake in order to take total ownership. By the start of 2018, the joint venture was operating 86 retail stores around China. Columbia products were also being sold through brand-specific e-commerce websites in China and distributed via some 50 wholesale dealers in 750 retail outlets. Swire Resources will continue to act as the exclusive independent distributor acting on behalf of Columbia Sportswear in Hong Kong and Macau.

The photograph above shows a Columbia Sportswear store in Hong Kong, where Swire Resources will continue to act as the company’s distributor.

Publishing Data

This article was originally published on page 2 of the June 2018 issue of SATRA Bulletin.