Clothing manufacturer Pearl Izumi has been bought by Shimano American Corporation, the US wing of Shimano. Pearl Izumi, previously owned by Nautilus, Inc., will become a wholly-owned subsidiary of Shimano American but will be run independently and will continue to operate from its facilities in Broomfield, Colorado and Kirchzarten, Germany.

"The acquisition brings together two companies started by Japanese families who share a passion for cycling," said David Pfeiffer, President of Shimano American. "Both have strong research and development backgrounds, offer industry leading innovations, and share an obsession with quality and performance. We'll continue to build the respective brands and remain dedicated to the healthy independent dealer networks we've both enjoyed."

Juergen Eckmann, President of Pearl Izumi, said that the acquisition is a great fit for both companies. "The entire team at Pearl Izumi USA and Europe are excited about opportunities and benefits we gain in becoming part of Shimano,” said Eckmann. "Shimano provides knowledge and expertise which will make our brand stronger and we in turn have a great deal of experience in performance apparel, fabric technologies and run footwear that Shimano did not previously possess."

Shimano will continue to offer its branded clothing and cycling footwear along with the Pearl Izumi clothing and cycling footwear in all markets. Shimano's acquisition includes Pearl Izumi's facility in Kirchzarten, Germany, and the rights to Pearl Izumi sales and distribution throughout North and South America, Europe, Australia and select other countries (but not Japan and most of Asia).