A home grown Western Australian swimwear company has boosted its portfolio by taking on an authentic hardcore surfing brand.
The Silverthorne family, which owns leading Perth swimwear label Kooey Australia, has today (Mon) announced that it has now completed its acquisition of WA-based West Surfing Products.
Director and designer of Kooey, Nikki Silverthorne, said the West staff would merge with Kooey's team immediately.
Silverthorne said: “This acquisition represents a significant step for both Kooey and West in our strategy designed to accelerate growth in both businesses.
“We are now focused on seizing the opportunities in both local and international markets that this transaction has created for us.
“We are looking forward to delivering on the promise of this acquisition to build both brands exponentially and with speed."
With Kooey’s help, West will also utilise a larger communications and marketing campaign in its bid to embrace 'the global opportunities available', Silverthorne said.
Her team now plans to grow and develop the swimwear and apparel ranges with the West team, while staying true to their mission of providing exceptional fitting and hard-wearing in and out of water products.
Silverthorne added: "We excitedly welcome the West team aboard – who know the surf industry, marketplace and products inside out.
“Working with an authentic industry leader like West, who has a loyal connection to its customer and roots, is as a great opportunity for us and our audience to share our common values.
“Both Kooey and West are now stronger and wider-based companies than ever before."
West has been an industry leader in surfing circles and is known for its revolutionary wetsuit technology and design since 1982.
In addition to wetsuits, West also produce sun protection products, swimwear and men and women's seasonal apparel.
West is currently distributed in 20 countries throughout Europe, Asia and the Americas and has a subsidiary in Southern California - ready to start delivering product to the booming USA surf industry.
West's director of operations, Patrick Leahy, said: “ We see West and Kooey as a great match, not only in business, but also to promote the spirit and talent in WA beyond its borders.”