INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVE

Gun Trade Insider offers a detailed examination of the latest developments across various international markets.

ACROSS THE POND

DECLINE IN NSSF-ADJUSTED NICS BACKGROUND CHECKS

The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) reported a 4.7 percent decline in the NSSF-adjusted National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) figures for June 2024. This downward trend is reflected in both the adjusted and unadjusted figures, with a notable decrease compared to the same period in the previous year. The adjusted figures are particularly significant as they provide a more precise measure of firearm checks by excluding certain types of background checks, such as those for concealed carry weapon (CCW) permit applications.

CSG PURCHASE PRICE FOR THE KINETIC GROUP BUSINESS INCREASED TO $2.1 BILLION

Vista Outdoor Inc. announced an increase in the purchase price for the acquisition of The Kinetic Group business by CSG by £100 million to $2.1 billion. This amendment also raises the cash consideration for Vista Outdoor stockholders, reflecting the strategic value of this acquisition in the broader context of the industry.

THE SECOND AMENDMENT FOUNDATION SUES CALIFORNIA TAX ON GUNS AND AMMUNITION

The Second Amendment Foundation (SAF) has filed a lawsuit against the state of California over a new 11% excise tax on firearms, gun parts, and ammunition. The lawsuit challenges the constitutionality of this tax, arguing it undermines rights protected by the Second Amendment. This legal action emphasizes the ongoing national debate over firearms regulation and taxation.

SILENCER CENTRAL ANNOUNCES NEW PARTNERSHIP WITH EUROOPTIC.COM

Silencer Central, known as America’s largest silencer dealer, has formed a strategic partnership with EuroOptic.com. This collaboration aims to enhance the customer purchasing experience by integrating Silencer Central’s ‘Delivered by Silencer Central’ program, which facilitates the sale and delivery of suppressors. Pictured is Brandon Maddox, CEO of Silencer Central.

SILENCERCO SET TO ACQUIRE ZEV TECHNOLOGIES OPERATIONS

SilencerCo plans to acquire certain operations of Zev Technologies, known for its innovations in firearm manufacturing. This acquisition aims to enhance SilencerCo’s product offerings and capitalize on Zev Technologies’ market presence and expertise.

MARKETING ORGANISATION SHIFT AT SIG SAUER

Sig Sauer has announced that Robby Johnson has been named chief marketing officer. Johnson currently serves as senior vice president, commercial & defence product management, and will maintain those responsibilities.

Johnson will report to Sig Sauer president and CEO, Ron Cohen and will work closely with the former chief marketing officer and executive vice president, commercial sales, Tom Taylor, who will be assuming a new role in the company as executive vice president, global brand development. Johnson will also serve as senior vice president, Sig Sauer Academy where he will assume management of the world-renowned Sig Sauer Academy and SIG Experience Center.

“Robby brings a tremendous breadth of experience to the ever-evolving and growing SIG brand,” said Ron Cohen, chief executive officer, Sig Sauer. “Robby served our country as a U.S. Army Ranger, Army Mountain Warfare School Instructor, and was a competitive shooter and trainer with the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit. His 21 years of military service and experience in the industry at Remington, as well as various roles at Sig Sauer, puts him in a great position to make a smooth transition into his role leading Sig Sauer marketing.”

Jack Barnes is senior vice president, commercial sales and will now report directly to Ron Cohen.

AFRICA

KRYPTEK AND FORMALITO ANNOUNCE STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIP TO EXPAND OUTDOOR SPORTING OFFERINGS IN SOUTH AFRICA

Kryptek, a global leader in tactical and outdoor gear, and Formalito, a premier distributor of outdoor sporting products in South Africa, have announced a new strategic partnership. This collaboration aims to bring Kryptek’s cutting-edge apparel and gear to the African market, enhancing the outdoor experience for enthusiasts across the continent.

This partnership will leverage Formalito’s extensive distribution network and deep understanding of the African outdoor market to make Kryptek’s high-performance products more accessible to customers in the region. With a shared commitment to quality and innovation, both companies are poised to meet the growing demand for superior outdoor sporting goods.

“We have world-renowned brands in our portfolio, in which we strive to offer our dealers the best quality products at the most affordable prices in the industry, and then back it up with the best service,” said Johannes Coertze, managing director of Formalito. “It is an honour for us to join hands with Kryptek, because it is a trusted, tried, and tested brand, created, honed, and perfected by experienced veterans like Butch Whiting and his experienced team.”

MAINLAND EUROPE

CZ BRAND BOLSTERS PRODUCTION CAPACITY WITH NEW COLT CZ HUNGARY FACILITY

Colt CZ Group has expanded its production capacity with a new facility in Hungary. This development is aimed at meeting the increasing global demand for CZ firearms, catering to both military and commercial sectors. The new facility is equipped with advanced manufacturing technologies and is expected to play a crucial role in the global distribution of military-grade firearms.