July 13, 2023
Rapala VMC Corporation and James Coble, current majority shareholder of DQC International, which manufactures and markets 13 Fishing rods and reels, have reached an agreement in which Rapala VMC will increase its ownership of DQC International to 60 percent of the Florida-based company while Coble will retain a 40 percent share of the company.
Rapala VMC introduced 13 Fishing freshwater, saltwater and hardwater (ice fishing) rods and reels to markets outside the United States following the 49-percent acquisition in DQC International in 2019. Rapala VMC will continue to invest in the marketing and product development of the 13 Fishing brand with the intent of building brand loyalty for 13 Fishing among retailers and consumers around the world, including the U.S..
Under the agreement, Coble will continue as CEO of 13 Fishing with a key emphasis on building the brand and driving new and innovative products into the worldwide market.
The amalgamation of 13 Fishing’s and Rapala’s product ranges will maximize mutually beneficial distribution and operative synergies.
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“Rapala is one of the largest players worldwide in our industry. Where 13 Fishing excels in branding, product development and innovation, Rapala excels in driving operations and sales,” said Coble. “Joining forces in the U.S. and leveraging Rapala’s vast knowledge and customer base will allow 13 Fishing to rapidly accelerate growth in the U.S. market.”
Added Rapala president and CEO Lars Ollberg: "For almost four years we have been selling 13 Fishing products outside the United States. Now is the time to join forces in the U.S., in which market Rapala’s operational excellence will truly accelerate the growth of the 13 Fishing brand.”
