BIG FLATS, N.Y. (BRAIN) — Stan's NoTubes founders Stan and Cindy Koziatek are retiring after selling the company to the North Carolina-based investment company Zabel Companies LLC.
The Koziateks have owned and operated the company for 21 years. It now has distribution in nearly 70 countries.
Mike Bush will continue as president and CEO, the company said.
Zabel Companies owns a portfolio of brand-driven companies in a variety of industries; Stan's appears to be the first acquisition in the sports industry.
"We feel incredibly fortunate to have found Zabel Companies after a diligent search for the right fit," said Bush. "Their emphasis on sustainable, long-term growth, building a strong brand, and preserving company staff and culture are values Stan, Cindy, and I have long shared. Zabel's expertise and experience building businesses for long-term, sustained growth are a perfect fit for the continued growth of Stan's."
Bush added, "I'm incredibly happy that Stan and Cindy were able to exit the business on their terms and they leave behind an amazing team to continue their legacy. That team includes not just our outstanding employees, but our incredible distributors, dealers, OEM partners, our talented athletes, and most of all, our dedicated customers. We are so grateful for the support that has allowed us to grow the brand, celebrate so many athletic achievements, and save countless rides over the past twenty-plus years. We are also more excited than ever about the future as we start this new chapter together with Zabel."
Rich Jones, a partner with The Zabel Companies said, "Stan and Cindy created a category, built a market leader, and have the preeminent brand in the industry; most importantly they surrounded themselves with great people and a strong leader in Mike Bush."
Jones added, "We look forward to preserving Stan's and Cindy's legacy and what has made the business successful to date as we partner with and provide support to Mike and the Stan's team to continue building and growing this great business."
