Press release (translated from German by Google Translate)
"June 27, 2025 – The HEAD Group, a global leader in sports equipment, acquires the AQUALUNG Group.
According to a ruling by the Nice Commercial Court on June 26, HEAD was declared the successful bidder in the takeover process of the ailing AQUALUNG Group, which has been in insolvency administration since May 16.
With an existing portfolio in winter sports, racquet sports, sportswear, and water sports, this acquisition significantly strengthens HEAD's position in the water sports segment by expanding the brand portfolio beyond the established brands MARES, SSI, rEvo, LIVEABOARD.COM, and ZOGGS.
HEAD plans a comprehensive restructuring of the AQUALUNG Group business unit and will provide immediate financial resources to ensure the continued existence and long-term stability of the group. To this end, HEAD has put together a rescue package of over €50 million and presented a comprehensive integration plan with significant synergies. This will safeguard hundreds of jobs and improve and expand AQUALUNG's production facilities in France, the UK, and Mexico.
Two heritage brands united in a new global leadership role in water sports – driven by shared values such as safety, technical excellence, innovation, comfort, top performance, and a deep passion for sport and exploring the underwater world.
HEAD will maintain and further develop the AQUALUNG, APEKS, and AQUASPHERE brands and strengthen the strategically important and growing military and commercial diving division.
HEAD also plans to leverage the Aqualung Group's production capacities to support the global production and distribution of premium products. The combined expertise of both companies will accelerate market leadership and open up new opportunities to expand access to water sports worldwide.
Founded in 1943 following the invention of the "Aqualung" by Captain Jacques Cousteau and engineer Émile Gagnan, the AQUALUNG Group is a pioneer with an unparalleled history and a global reference in diving equipment. The products are sold in over 90 countries and used by recreational, military, and professional divers for critical missions.
MARES was acquired by HEAD in 1971 and has since developed into a leading diving brand with innovative products.
SSI was acquired by HEAD in 2014 and is now the leading diver training organization in Europe, having more than doubled its revenue since then.
ZOGGS, an Australian-founded swimwear brand, was acquired in 2020 and has since experienced strong international growth through the HEAD network."