nion City, Calif., January 13 – Ariat International, the leading manufacturer of performance equestrian footwear, apparel and belts, today announced it has acquired The SMD Group, Ltd. (SMD), a recognized leader in the sales, marketing and distribution of premium equestrian goods in the UK. SMD has been Ariat’s exclusive Distributor in the UK since 1997.
“The SMD Group is an excellent addition to the Ariat team as we continue to grow our business aggressively in the UK and throughout Europe," said Beth Cross, president and CEO of Ariat. “Ariat and SMD have enjoyed a long history together, and with this acquisition we are taking another important step in our ongoing efforts to build the Ariat brand in every major market around the world. Looking ahead, we believe our prospects for growth continue to be excellent, and we are fully committed to capitalizing on the positive momentum in the UK and European markets.”
“Importantly, because we have been building our talent base around the world – the opportunity to acquire talent of the caliber of the SMD organization was a major factor for us when evaluating this acquisition. The present SMD team will stay intact, and we’re certainly pleased to have them on board,” Cross said.
“Speaking for the SMD organization, we are thrilled to become a part of the Ariat team,” said Phil Duff, founder and managing director of SMD. “In joining Ariat, we become part of a company that is a leader in the equestrian industry and is committed to collaborating with us to grow our business. With the Ariat infrastructure and management team behind us, we’ll be positioned to maximize the potential of the Ariat brand in the UK market.”
Ariat will retain SMD’s management, sales, marketing and supporting staff. The company will continue operations at its current headquarters and warehouse facility in Faringdon, near Oxford, UK.
About Ariat International, Inc.
Ariat International, Inc. is the leading manufacturer of innovative performance equestrian footwear, apparel and belts. Featuring a patented technology designed to deliver stability, durability and comfort, Ariat pioneered the application of advanced athletic shoe technology into English riding boots and authentic Western boots. Ariat products are sold in a network of retail outlets throughout the world. For more information about Ariat products or for the Ariat retailer nearest you, contact Ariat at 800.899.8141 or visit www.ariat.com.
About The SMD Group, Ltd.
Widely regarded as the specialist in Sales, Marketing and Distribution of premium equestrian goods, Oxfordshire-based SMD Group, Ltd. was established in 1987 as HAC-TAC Ltd. by Phil Duff, the founder and creator of the popular HAC-TAC brand.
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