Shimano Europe acquires world’s oldest bike helmet brand
01/07/2016
Founded in 1919, Antwerp-based Lazer claims to be the oldest sports helmet company in the world. It designs and manufacturers protective headwear for cycling and winter sports and distributes its products in more than 50 countries around the world.
On announcing the deal, Shimano said it views Lazer’s headwear as a complement to its own clothing, footwear and eyewear products, as well as to Pearl Izumi clothing, also owned by Shimano. It said the deal will allow it to bring “a complete top-to-toe line up” for cyclists.
Managing director and joint-owner of Lazer, Sean van Waes, commented: “This will allow us to concentrate on what we do best, innovation.” He added that the deal will help Lazer become “the biggest helmet brand in the world at a faster pace” while giving Shimano access to “the best helmets in the business”.
The Lazer team will continue to be based in Antwerp and Mr van Waes and fellow owner and sales director, Peter Steenwegen, will remain as part of the management team. Shimano Europe’s headquarters are in Eindhoven in the Netherlands.
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