Intrepid Investment Bankers announced today that it acted as the exclusive financial advisor to Drum Workshop, Inc. (“DW” or the “Company”) on its sale to Roland Corporation (TSE: 7944) (“Roland”).
Founded in 1972, DW is the leading designer, manufacturer, and distributor of acoustic drums, drum hardware, percussion instruments, and related accessories. Initially formed as a teaching studio for young drummers by now industry icon Don Lombardi, DW built a reputation for innovation after launching numerous revolutionary drumming products developed by Don and his long-term partner, John Good. Under the later leadership of Don’s son, Chris Lombardi, DW accelerated its growth and built a portfolio of iconic percussion brands including Pacific Drums and Percussion (“PDP”), Latin Percussion (“LP”), Slingerland, and Gretsch Drums. Today, the Company is regarded as an undisputed industry pioneer and leader in acoustic percussion, renowned for its excellence, authenticity, and best-in-class solutions for drummers and percussionists across all genres, skill levels, and price points around the world. Coming on both DW and Roland’s 50th anniversaries, the acquisition brings together two industry leaders in a powerful combination that is poised to significantly expand the market and usher in the future of the industry with next-generation products that redefine the player experience.
“We are thrilled to have had Gary Rabishaw and his team at Intrepid advising us on our recent transaction with Roland Corporation. Ensuring that the DW legacy and the future of our brands remain strong was a core objective for us, and with Intrepid’s support, we feel confident in our decision to become part of the Roland family of brands,” said DW CEO Chris Lombardi. “The Intrepid team’s distinct knowledge of the music industry, unique ability to tell our story, and steady hands guiding us throughout this process proved invaluable in getting us to this point.”
“Roland wanted to expand the choice for drummers and to join with the world’s best acoustic drum company. DW is a great way to do this. By adding Drum Workshop and their respective brands to our family, integrating DW’s product design resources, and driving innovation for the benefit of our percussion customers, we have determined that we can make the leap to become the undisputed world’s best drum company,” said Roland CEO Gordon Raison.
“We are incredibly proud to have represented DW and the Lombardi family in this transformational combination,” said Gary Rabishaw, Managing Director and Head of Intrepid’s Commercial & Consumer Technology (“CCT”) practice. “This transaction is emblematic of Intrepid’s CCT practice, combining long-term relationships, intimate knowledge of the industry, global reach, and the ability to find highly strategic acquirors for our clients. We are excited to see the impact of this remarkable partnership on the industry and on the player experience in the years to come.”