A joint venture between GCI Outdoor and RIO Brands has created Integrity Outdoor Brands (IOB). RIO Brands is using the deal to spin off its sporting goods and hunting division. The companies see synergies between GCI’s designs and product innovation and RIO’s 60-year reputation, its Chinese manufacturing facilities and its financial strength as significantly boosting the strength of IOB, which will supply portable recreation gear for camping/outdoor, water sports and hunting/shooting sports. The new company will be led by two co-chief executives, Dan Grace and Jeff Polke. The remaining RIO Brands will focus on the core categories of beach and backyard.
