Dixie Acquired by UK Firm
Dixie Sales Company Inc., Greensboro, N.C., has been acquired by Freeplay Energy plc, a United Kingdom-based developer and marketer of alternative energy solutions.
Established in 1914, Dixie Sales is a marketing, sales and distribution services company that serves the powersports, outdoor power equipment, power tool and consumer electronic industries. Founded in 1994, Freeplay manufactures renewable energy products geared for outdoor sports, including lanterns, flashlights, weather band radios, mobile phone chargers and portable power generators.
Dixie officials say the deal provides Dixie with an array of self-powered energy products and services while opening distribution and sales opportunities for Freeplay.
According to Jim Starmer, Dixie Sales Company President, the company will continue to operate under the Dixie name and there will be no changes to the Dixie Sales Company management team.
“Since our North American distribution and marketing agreement with Dixie was signed in June of 2005, we have benefited from Dixie’s strong management team,” said Rory Stear, Freeplay Chairman. “Their tremendous knowledge of the channel, their strong relationships with major retailers and merchants and their marketing and operational expertise are critical to growing the Freeplay brand and our business opportunities.”
Peter Porteous, CEO of Dixie Sales Company and the new CEO of Freeplay Energy plc, says the acquisition is a win-win for all parties. “The new partnership allows Dixie access to new products and resources while expanding market development and distribution opportunities for Freeplay’s portfolio of self-powered, sustainable energy products,” he said.
