Zildjian's Craigie Zildjian and Vic Firth Co.'s Vic Firth

DEC. 20 I PRO-MARK, VIC FIRTH I MERGER
Drumstick Giants Merge With Larger Suppliers

Drumstick companies Pro-Mark and Vic Firth have each merged with separate suppliers.

D'Addario and Pro-Mark recently announced they're close to finalizing terms relating to D'Addario's proposed purchase of the 53-year-old drumstick company. They plan to execute the purchase contract by year's end. D'Addario CEO Jim D'Addario said the acquisition will further diversify D'Addario's product offerings and expand the company's manufacturing footprint.

"This is a key strategic add-on acquisition for us," he said. "Pro-Mark's brand would be a natural complement and extension to D'Addario's line of products."

"The sale of Pro-Mark, a family-owned business, to the D'Addario family is practical on both a personal and professional level," said Maury Brochstein, Pro-Mark's CEO. "I'm excited about the opportunity to assist D'Addario with the growth of the Pro-Mark brand. Finalizing this deal with D'Addario will ensure that Pro-Mark's rich history of creating exceptional products will carry forward into the future with a company famous for its dedication to product innovation and quality."

D'Addario President Rick Drumm added that D'Addario is "fortunate to have the opportunity to purchase a company with such a deep history and prominent position in our industry." He explained that D'Addario's team of LEAN manufacturing experts will immediately begin a LEAN transformation at the company's Houston facilities upon execution of the agreement.

Zildjian, Vic Firth Join Forces
On Dec. 20, New England-based companies Avedis Zildjian and Vic Firth announced they were merging, effective immediately. Zildjian CEO Craigie Zildjian said both companies will continue to run autonomously, and customers should notice no difference in the way business is conducted.

"Zildjian is honored to join forces with the Vic Firth Co., which has set the standard for drumsticks in the music industry," she added. "Similarities in our cultures and business philosophies, coupled with a shared dedication to product and service excellence, provide a strong foundation for the union of our two companies."

"I have the greatest respect for Zildjian," said Vic Firth, president of Vic Firth Co. "Our businesses share common values, a passion for manufacturing and a similar approach to how we do business. This union represents a unique opportunity to leverage our respective leadership positions in the drumstick and cymbal categories. I look forward to years of growth and newfound success."

promark.com; vicfirth.com