Polaris buys Indian

Polaris, manufacturers of Victory motorcycles, have bought the iconic American brand Indian Motorcycles.

Polaris Press Release:

Polaris Industries Inc. today announced the acquisition of Indian Motorcycle. The business was acquired from Indian Motorcycle Limited , a company advised by Stellican Limited and Novator Partners LLP, U.K. Private Equity firms. Terms of the transaction were not disclosed. "We are excited to be part of the revitalization of a quintessentially American brand," said Scott Wine, CEO of Polaris Industries Inc. "Indian built America's first motorcycle. With our technology and vision, we are confident we will deliver the classic Indian motorcycle, enhanced by the quality and performance for which Polaris and Victory are known."
With this acquisition, Polaris adds one of motorcycling's legendary brands to its strong stable of Victory cruiser and touring bikes. Indian will operate as an autonomous business unit, building upon the potent combination of Polaris' engineering acumen and innovative technology with Indian's premium brand, iconic design and rich American heritage.
"We are delighted to have reached an agreement with Polaris. Polaris will utilize its well-known strengths in engineering, manufacturing, and distribution to complete the mission we undertook upon re-launching the brand in 2006: harness the enormous potential of the Indian brand," said Stephen Julius, chairman of Indian and managing director of Stellican. "Polaris is the most logical owner of Indian Motorcycle. Indian's heritage brand will allow Polaris to aggressively compete across an expanded spectrum of the motorcycle market.
Founded in 1901, Indian was America’s first motorcycle company, producing some of the industry’s most iconic models including the famous "Chief"and at one stage was the world’s largest motorcycle manufacturer. In recent years the brand has been attached to various owners, most recently based in North Carolina.