The Wing Group has acquired Kokatat, the Arcata, California–based manufacturer of paddlesports apparel. Kokatat joins the Wing Group’s portfolio of marine and outdoor brands, including Mustang Survival, Wing Inflatables, FabTek, Henshaw and Patten.
“Kokatat’s deep history in the recreational and professional paddlesports industry, along with the trust it has earned with end users through a legacy of quality, value, innovation and excellence, makes it a natural fit within the Wing Group portfolio,” reads the statement, citing a long-standing relationship and shared values as the foundation for the deal.
“This acquisition further strengthens the Group’s whitewater and paddling presence,” said Wing Group CEO Andrew Branagh. “Kokatat has been firmly embedded in that vertical since its founding. We value the talent, technical knowledge, and the company’s unique bond with the river. Kokatat brings capabilities that few organizations possess—and Arcata remains a critical part of that expertise and legacy.”
In an email to Paddling Mag, Branagh added that the Wing Group’s mission is to provide safety solutions for water environments, and that Kokatat complements Mustang Survival and the broader portfolio by expanding the Group’s ability to keep users safe while enjoying their time in and on the water.
“Kokatat is a brand and product leader in an important market segment,” he said. “Likewise, Mustang Survival is a leader in a similar, but distinct, segment. Bringing the companies together allows a collective approach with market-leading capabilities in both, and cross-pollinating that knowledge and experience strengthens the entire portfolio.”
What this means for customers and dealers
Founded by Steve O’Meara, Kokatat has been manufacturing in Arcata, California for more than 50 years. In 2021, longtime employee Mark Loughmiller, then the company’s director of operations, purchased Kokatat from O’Meara and became CEO.
According to the Wing Group statement, Kokatat will continue to operate as an independent brand under the Wing Group with global support from Mustang Survival. Loughmiller will remain in a leadership position, working in partnership with Mark Branagh, current Director of U.S. Commercial Sales at Mustang Survival.
“Kokatat customers and dealers will see renewed energy, capital, support and strength behind their beloved brand,” Mark and Andrew Branagh said in a joint email statement to Paddling Mag.
The transaction has been in the works for nearly six months and financial terms will not be disclosed.
Kokatat’s acquisition is the first industry shakeup of the year, following a wave of high-profile deals, including Jackson Kayak’s acquisition of Eddyline and Bass Pro’s acquisition of Hobie.
