Calder Capital, LLC, a premier Midwest Mergers and Acquisitions firm, is pleased to announce the investment of a majority stake in premier boat dealership Action Water Sports by Continuum Ventures of Grand Rapids, Michigan.
Action Water Sports was founded in 1990 with a single location, and over the past 33 years, the company has experienced significant growth and now has four locations. The company’s headquarters is based in Hudsonville, Michigan, and it has additional locations in Fenton and Traverse City, Michigan, as well as Polk City, Florida. Action Water Sports offers a wide range of services that include certified service, parts, detailing, and storage, as well as marine and water sports lifestyle products and apparel. Action has established itself as a leader in the industry and a go-to destination for water sports enthusiasts. Founder Jerry Brouwer will continue to serve as a partner and President.
Continuum Ventures is a versatile investment firm that oversees business investments and extends support for philanthropic, public policy, and civic engagement initiatives for Doug and Maria DeVos and their family. The DeVos family members have been loyal patrons of Action Water Sports for a considerable period. As such, the acquisition of Action Water Sports is an ideal addition to their portfolio of investments, which includes other notable entities like Walstrom Marine, Algonac Harbor Club, and several others.
“Action Water Sports has experienced exceptional growth as a lifestyle brand, serving a discerning customer base who share a love of adventure and the water,” remarked Jerry Brouwer. “As we looked to the future, we were seeking a partner who shares our passion for boating and values – and we couldn’t be more pleased to partner with Continuum Ventures and the Doug and Maria DeVos family in the next chapter of growth for Action Water Sports.”
Pankaj Rajadhyaksha of Calder Capital served as the lead Mergers & Acquisitions Advisor to Action Water Sports.
“It was a pleasure representing Action Water Sports as it transitions to its next chapter. I’ve been privileged to know Jerry and Kris Brouwer since 1998 and Gregg and Mary Rising since 2007. It was also a pleasure to get to know Phil in Florida through this process. They have built a phenomenal team and I’ve known many of the team members for well over a decade as well. I am thrilled that they have found a partner that shares their values and will help them grow for years to come,” Pankaj shared.
“Pankaj, thank you for your guidance and steady hand through this process,” Jerry commented, “It’s fantastic that our decades of friendship have culminated with such a successful outcome.”
Calder Capital, LLC served as the exclusive Mergers and Acquisitions Advisor to Action Water Sports.
About Action Water Sports
In 1990, Jerry and Kris Brouwer founded Action Water Sports in Holland, Michigan as a Mastercraft boat dealer. As the years passed, the Company expanded its reach, adding the Cobalt, Barletta, and Crest brands to its repertoire. In 2003, the Company branched out to Traverse City, and in 2007, they joined forces with Gregg Rising to create Action Water Sports of Fenton. Gregg and his team had previously been a part of Watersports Marine, which had a long-standing history in the greater Detroit market selling the Mastercraft brand. In 2018, Action Water Sports of Orlando was launched by Mr. Brouwer and Phil Miklo to serve the Central Florida market. Both Mr. Rising and Mr. Miklo will remain as Managers of their respective locations. Action Water Sports is also the proud operator of Action Wake Park, Michigan’s premier full-size cable wakeboard facility.
About Continuum Ventures
Continuum Ventures focuses on managing business investments and supporting philanthropic, public policy, and civic engagement initiatives for the Doug and Maria DeVos family. The Company believes in the potential of empowered people and invests in industries that create lasting impact for their employees, customers, and communities. The company provides guidance and resources to support the growth of these companies, making a positive impact through innovative practices and philanthropic endeavors.
About Calder Capital
Calder Capital, LLC is a lower middle market investment bank providing mergers and acquisitions advisory services to business owners, entrepreneurs, family offices, and investors across the United States. Our dedicated team of professionals combines extensive industry experience, technological innovation, negotiation savvy, and key relationships to exhibit exceptional execution. Calder’s services include mergers and acquisitions advisory, private funds and capital markets advisory, and business valuations.
