While Adidas is performing well as a company lately, its CCM Hockey brand is on the block for the "second time in less than a year," and speculation as to "who the interested buyers might be has already begun," according to Barbara Shecter of the FINANCIAL POST. Toronto-based Brookfield Asset Management, which "expressed interest last year" in Performance Sports Group, is "one potential suitor." CCM President Philippe Dubé said that "both the parent company and the sports unit are committed to closing the deal this time." Schecter noted CCM is "one of the largest designers, manufacturers and marketers of hockey equipment and related apparel," and has deals with top NHLers like Penguins C Sidney Crosby and Oilers C Connor McDavid. However, "starting with the next hockey season," Adidas itself will have the "exclusive license for NHL jerseys" (FINANCIALPOST.com, 3/8). Dubé said that a new owner is a "'great opportunity' for the long-time Canadian brand to increase its hockey-equipment market share." Dubé: "We’re already very happy that we’re going to report to a new owner that will be more invested in this equipment category, and will help us to continue to drive the brand, and to invest in R&D and operating efficiencies." Dubé added that the brand "intends to remain headquartered in the Montreal area." Canadian Sporting Goods Association President & CEO Julian Savory noted that CCM Hockey was "No. 2 in the Canadian equipment market by dollar share as of about a year ago," with 17%, which compares to market leader Bauer with 34%. But Savory said that CCM is "catching up to Bauer 'very, very quickly'" (THEGLOBEANDMAIL.com, 3/8).
