Citing a " synergy of brands , global distribution and financial strength to fuel growth ," Blaine , Minnesota based Arrowhead Engineered Products ( AEP ), " a global leader in aftermarket parts distribution ," has announced the acquisition of Boise , Idaho based powersports distributor Western Power Sports ( WPS ) - the owner of the HardDrive V-twin industry parts and accessory distribution brand and of a six strong distribution center network around the United States . Founded in 1960 , originally as a snowsports specialist , WPS distributes over 150,000 products that include off-road and street motorcycle , ATV , snowmobile and watercraft parts and accessories to around 12,000 dealers in the United States , and has a team of more than 150 sales reps . Currently seen as the fastest growing of the market ' s distributors , its national coverage warehouse network includes some one million plus sq ft of

space at facilities in California , Georgia , Pennsylvania , Indiana , Texas and at its Boise , Idaho headquarters . " This acquisition is an important step in our growth strategy and aligns with our mission to be the largest off-road aftermarket parts supplier in the world ," said John Mosunic , CEO of

Arrowhead . " WPS , a leading powersports distributor in North America , has a tremendous reputation with its dealer network and I ' m thrilled to have their team lead our powersports segment . The combined power of WPS with Arrowhead ' s additional brands , global distribution

footprint and best-in-class supply chain network creates a powerful team giving dealers a wider selection of quickly available products ." Newly appointed Chief Operating Officer , Steve Lester , replacing former owner Craig Shoemaker at the helm of WPS , is quoted as adding : " Through the sale process , we spoke with several quality companies that expressed interest in WPS - Arrowhead was the only company with an excellent cultural fit and matched our commitment to customer service ." Familiar global powersports brands built by Arrowhead include those under the All Balls Racing Group ( ABRG ) umbrella , including the All Balls Racing program , Vertex Pistons , Cylinder Works , Hot Cams , Hot Rods , Pivot Works and Tiger Lights , plus around a dozen other brands also owned by Arrowhead that are focused on outdoor power equipment , agriculture , arborist , golf cars and other specialty equipment .

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