skidoo sale update

Ski-Doo rumors return as some industry insiders expect a sale to be consummated before August.

AMERICAN SNOWMOBILER has learned that initial bidding brought about 30 bidders to seek information on the divestiture of Bombardier Inc.'s Recreational Products Group, which includes the Ski-Doo snowmobile assets.

Of the 30 or more bidders, a handful were willing to sign the requisite non-disclosure forms and perform an extended due diligence which is a sign of serious bidding.

Industry sources suggest that the final bidding is to begin on or about the end of June with a possible sale as early as the end of July. It is suggested that serious bids are to be firmed up by June 30th.

While no corporate names have been disclosed at this point, it is said that at least five entities have entered the final bidding and are expected to make serious offers for the recreational products group of snowmobiles, personal watercraft, ATVs, boat motors and trail groomers.

Names mentioned when Bombardier first listed the group for sale included John Deere and Harley-Davidson.

Because the parent company, Bombardier Inc., wants a quick infusion of cash to shore up depressed aircraft sales, the sale is expected to be completed quickly.