Muskegon, MI – Children and teenagers emerging into adulthood frequently experience growing pains. When applied in the business world, however, the euphemistic term is often used to soften the negative consequences of poor or shortsighted decisions undertaken during critical periods of corporate growth.

With that said, the people behind ScentLok Technologies have never taken shortcuts in over 25 years of doing business… Ever. From the moment Greg Sesselmann revealed the solution for keeping a deer hunter’s odor from wafting through the woods, and through the subsequent development of a multitude of new technologies and products, the team at ScentLok has always insisted on doing things the right way. Their commitment to the hunting industry as a whole – as well as to producing only the finest-quality products to support the Complete Odor Management needs of individual hunters – is why the company keeps investing and growing.

Organizing for Success

Upon ScentLok’s acquisition of all assets of Robinson Outdoors last July, the company immediately announced their commitment to maintaining the authenticity of the Robinson brands and products, including ScentBlocker, ScentShield, Tree Spider and Whitewater Outdoors. ScentLok Technologies Owner and CEO, Patrick Hylant, had this to say to ScentBlocker customers at the time:

Our respective brand values have always been aligned. Both ScentLok and ScentBlocker have been built upon common principles that include a strong reverence for family, God and the glory of wild places. We are driven by the moment of truth and a great respect for the creatures we pursue. Today, our merger only fortifies these common values. We understand that ScentBlocker is your brand. We wish to assure you that the ScentBlocker brand – including its technologies and the quality it is known for – will be maintained. That authenticity will carry on as it always has.

Four months later, this pledge to the hunting community is further reinforced with the creation of a new corporate entity to unify the best scent-controlling brands and products available: Nexus Outdoors.

Nexus Outdoors represents a formal unification of the expanded ScentLok brands. It is intended to consolidate operations for long-term efficiencies, while allowing the company to continue to do what it has always done since day one: offer hunters the best technologies in the best products at the best price.

“Although not forward facing to the consumer, Nexus Outdoors provides a framework for the individual brands and products that support our mission of Complete Odor Management,” says Hylant. “In light of this news, we wish to reinforce our pledge of transparency to our customers: It will always be their voice that creates our products, not our boardroom – regardless of what the company is called. Every tree stand is different and every situation is unique, so we ask that all hunters continue to share their experiences with our brands and products with us. Nothing will get hunters closer to game than all of us working together. I’ve said it before: We don’t need to be the biggest, but we will always strive to be the best.”

Investing in People

Immediate evidence of Nexus Outdoors’ continued responsible growth is clear in three recent hires at the company’s Muskegon, Michigan headquarters.

Dale Douglas joins Nexus Outdoors as Senior Vice President of Product Development. In this role, Dale will lead sourcing, technology and product strategies for all brands. Born and raised in Nebraska, Douglas brings over 24 years of experience as director, merchandise manager, product and category manager, and senior manager of global sourcing of hunting apparel for Cabela’s. Married and raising his son, Trev, and daughter, Makenna, Douglas still finds time to add to his 35 years of hunting experience, with his core passions being whitetail archery, waterfowl, upland and predator hunting.

Taking on the position of National Sales Manager is Kevin Strong. Strong brings 10 years of hunting industry experience, including a multi-faceted retail background with sporting goods store ownership and additional corporate merchandising experience gained at Bass Pro Shops. Most recently, Strong served as a key account manufacturer’s rep covering the upper Midwest in the archery and shooting sports markets. In his new position, Strong will be responsible for all revenue generation for the recently acquired Blocker Outdoors brand portfolio across all channels and markets. Strong will work closely with Vice President of Sales, Norm Langlois, and other members of the Nexus Outdoors leadership team to drive growth for the company’s trusted brands. Strong is a passionate bow hunter who also enjoys fishing, camping, golfing and spending time with his wife, Devon, and daughter, Madelynn.
Leslie Rakestraw joins the Nexus Outdoors team as Senior Production Planning Manager. With more than 10 years in procurement, Rakestraw’s specialized knowledge, skills and experience make her a valuable addition to the team. Joining the team will be a smooth transition, as Rakestraw previously worked at ScentLok for 16 years in various roles, including customer service, logistics and purchasing. Most recently, Rakestraw was Site Buyer for Knoll, managing a wide variety of commodities and vendors. Her experience in sourcing, negotiation and supplier relationships will ensure Nexus Outdoors continues to bring the very best products to market.

“A lot of folks don’t realize how efficient our team is,” says Hylant, who believes strongly that it is its people who contribute most to the success of any small business. “We couldn’t have accomplished what we have on behalf of hunters over the past 25 years without a team comprised of uniquely qualified individuals. We have the highest confidence in Dale, Kevin and Leslie, and look forward to leveraging their distinct strengths and abilities for the benefit of our customers.”

ABOUT NEXUS OUTDOORS
Nexus Outdoors, headquartered in Muskegon, MI, USA, is a leading worldwide designer, marketer and distributor of performance, hunting and casual odor-controlling apparel, footwear and equipment under the ScentLok®, OZ®, ScentBlocker®, Scent Shield®, Whitewater Outdoors® and Tree Spider® brands. Nexus Outdoors is the only company with access to all scent-controlling technologies, including their patented Carbon Alloy technology and Trinity technology, which provide superior success in the field. ScentLok and Scentblocker are pioneers in the hunting industry, which many credit with creating a market based on the elimination of odors to get closer to big game.

About ScentLok
ScentLok Technologies, headquartered in Muskegon, MI, USA, is a leading worldwide designer, marketer and distributor of performance, hunting and casual odor-controlling apparel, footwear and equipment. Founded in 1992 on scientific principles, ScentLok is the only company with access to all scent-controlling technologies including their patented activated carbon technology, which is consistently proven to outperform other technologies tested. ScentLok is a pioneer in the hunting industry, which many credit with creating a market based on the elimination of odors to get closer to big game.

MEDIA CONTACTS:
Nick Andrews
VP of Marketing and Advertising
ScentLok Technologies
Nick@scentlok.com
800.315.5799

Josh Lantz
Traditions Media, LLC
Josh@traditionsmedia.com
219.728.8996

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Acquisition includes all brands, assets, patents and intellectual properties of Robinson Outdoor Products

MUSKEGON, MI  (July 6, 2017) – ScentLok Technologies®, the leading manufacturer of premium, scent-controlling products, is pleased and excited to announce its acquisition of Robinson Outdoor Products®. The transaction, finalized on July 6^th, includes all assets of Robinson Outdoors, including the ScentBlocker®, ScentShield®, Tree Spider® and Whitewater Outdoors® products and brands, as well as all patents and intellectual properties.

Founded by Bill Robinson in 1985, Robinson Outdoors introduced Scent Shield® – a human odor eliminating spray for hunters – during its initial year in business. In 1997, the company began offering their ScentBlocker® line of activated-carbon clothing. Robinson Outdoors acquired Whitewater Outdoors® in 2003 and branched into non-scent-controlling clothing. Additional innovations ensued as these brands matured; Robinson Outdoors introduced Tree Spider® tree stand safety products in 2010 and then launched the revolutionary Trinity synthetic odor-control technology in 2013.

“The Robinson portfolio of products and loyal customers is powerful and wide-ranging,” says Patrick Hylant, Owner and CEO of ScentLok Technologies. “Our company’s goal is to offer total odor-management solutions while maintaining the highest levels of customer satisfaction, and this acquisition will help us fulfill that mission. We don’t need to be the biggest; we just want to be the best. Our research and development team has already begun looking at the various Robinson technologies. We’re improving on them and finding their best applications. Customers can expect to see some of that DNA incorporated into new products as early as next year. We will continue to relentlessly drive to solve real problems for real customers and bring the absolute best products to market.”

And while certain technologies may cross over between brands, ScentLok is clear that it plans to invest in the ScentBlocker and other Robinson brands and products separate from the ScentLok name and product lines. Hylant adds, “We understand that ScentBlocker is a go-to name brand for a large and loyal population of the outdoor community. We want to ensure these strong and loyal customers that we are going to maintain the ScentBlocker brand, technologies and quality they are known for. That authenticity will carry-on as it always has.”

It is expected that all operations will be consolidated into the ScentLok offices and distribution centers located in Muskegon, Michigan.

ABOUT SCENTLOK 

ScentLok Technologies, headquartered in Muskegon, MI, USA, is a leading worldwide designer, marketer and distributor of performance, hunting and casual odor-controlling apparel, footwear and equipment under the ScentLok®, ScentBlocker®, Scent Shield®, Whitewater Outdoors® and Tree Spider® brands. Founded in 1992 on scientific principles, ScentLok is the only company with access to all scent-controlling technologies, including their patented activated carbon technology, which is consistently proven to outperform other technologies tested. ScentLok is a pioneer in the hunting industry, which many credit with creating a market based on the elimination of odors to get closer to big game.

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By Rachael Reginek-Krenz

What better way to hunt down or lure your prey than by deceiving your game’s sense of smell? We currently have the intelligence and technology to allow hunters to cover alarming scents and even lure trophy game straight to you. Most animals hunted have a sense of smell that is crucial to their survival; therefore it is very sensitive. If anything is altered in their environment that seems abnormal, instinct will spook the game away. There are many different approaches and products on the market that can make the difference in your future hunts. 

Ozonics:

A top-of-the-line scent control and eliminating device is the Ozonics HR 300. It exterminates human odor to prevent spooking game. Due to its quiet operation, you’re able to bring this anywhere in the field without having to worry about noise. The integrated pulse technology balances time and oxidant concentration to maintain a consistent output rate, never discharging too much or too little ozone. This product is designed to be easily operated, and can be used with gloves on and/or in the dark. It has EZ mount technology for quick and quiet mounting, and an improved Smart Battery designed for optimal per-session performance. The included Smart Charger maintains the battery capacity for an extended period of time and prolongs the batteries’ life.

The Kinetic Back Pack made by Ozonics is specially designed to lock in odors unfamiliar to wildlife. This durable backpack has padded shoulder straps, quiet dual zippers, and large finger pulls for easy use with gloves. For added convenience, this pack detaches at the top for the moments you only need scent elimination without the extra weight. Not only is there 1300 cubic inches of capacity, but it also includes two lower compression straps used for extra tag-along-items such as jackets, tri-pods, etc., and a compartment specially made for the Ozonics unit for some of the most effective odor elimination there is.

Learn more at ozonicshunting.com

Wildgame Innovations:

The Dominant Buck Bomb from Wildgame Innovations uses urine from mature bucks to lure rutting bucks with aggression instead of lust. It can be sprayed in bursts to create mock scrapes, enhance existing scrapes, or add aromatic realism to buck decoys. It can also be set to deploy all at once to create a strong downwind scent trail. The Dominant Buck Bomb is also UV-enhanced with Glo-Cote. This ultraviolet additive creates a visual lure that deer can see in daylight or darkness.

Learn more at wildgameinnovations.com

ScentBlocker:

The new DUI scent spray by Scentblocker has a dual-action formula that attracts and relaxes big game with an alluring cherry-vanilla scent. This formula contains an organic root additive that intoxicates game and draws them in; this effect is almost habitual. The potent vapor relaxes deer so they don’t mind suspicious odors, and it actually extends the time that deer spend at feed sites or food plots, allowing for more time to get that perfect shot. It can also entices nocturnal deer to become more daylight driven.

If you’re not interested in using sprays, another route is the Deodarant Pill by Scent Blocker. It effectively controls human scent with odor-neutralizing copper chlorophyllin. It also contains a high potency of parsley and alfalfa concentrate to help control mouth odors. This is a great internal route if your concern is bodily odor.

Learn more at robinsonoutdoors.com

Scent Crusher:

Scent Crusher offers a nifty device to eliminate odor on virtually any piece of equipment. The Ozone Equipment Station is a premium method for cleaning, drying, and eliminating odors by producing a chemical free drying method that rids things of odor, mold, mildew and viruses. This product includes heated air and ozone, as well as adjustable air pipes. Just set your gear on the pipes and the automatic timer shuts it off after up to 3 hours for scent free equipment. There is a 10-year life expectancy with no maintenance needed. It is designed to be small enough to be used in small mud rooms or a utility room.

The Scent Crusher Ozone Go is a great device used in your vehicle to remove odors and contaminants using ozone, which is chemical free. It can destroy odors in as little as 30 minutes, and the unit can be directly plugged into your vehicle’s 12-volt outlet for ease of use. This product includes an LED Ozone Emittance light, a 30-minute automatic timer with cycle generated ozone, and comes with a one-year maintenance-free warranty.

Learn more at scentcrusher.com

Primos:

Primos’ Control Freak is a dual-action collection of products that controls odors produced by bacteria and nonbacterial sources. It works on contact, instantly removing odors from clothing and equipment, and keeps them out for up to 24 hours. It works on all types of fabric and is safe for use in high-efficiency washers. The package includes an antiperspirant deodorant stick, bar soap, 12-ounce laundry detergent, 12-ounce shampoo and conditioner, 16-ounce spray, and a mesh bag.

Learn more at primos.com

Hunter’s Specialties:

Hunter’s Specialties recently released their Blade drive which is one of the quietest scent delivery systems, and is effective at creating an aroma of cover scent or scent attractant. This product includes one wafer blade (additional ones can be purchased separately), a lanyard, and two AA batteries. One set of batteries will last up to 8 hours.

The Buck Bomb by Hunter’s Specialties is also a great lure that comes in a variety of scents specific for different game. The Doe in Estrus mixture contains fresh doe-in-heat urine, making it one of the most efficient ways to lure passing bucks through the peak of the breeding season. This method is useful and effective while in a stand or blind, or when stalking. It can also be used on scent trails or on decoys for added realistic qualities. The container also has the convenient NVERTR 180-degree ball valve to maintain short bursts, even upside down, and can also lock to prevent the release. The cloud of scent can travel up to a quarter mile in 3 mph speed wind.

Learn more at hunterspec.com

Wildlife Research Center:

Wildlife Research Center’s Scent Killer Gold is formulated for maximum performance after it dries, meaning its scent-eliminating effects can last for multiple hunts. A study at Rutgers University found it blocked 99 percent of replicated human odors after being dry for 10 days. Its specialized blend of ingredients blocks a wide range of odors and prevents new odors from forming. It’s also available in field wipes, providing hunters with a convenient way to clean themselves and fight odors when showers aren’t available.

Learn more at wildlife.com

Code Blue:

The D/Code Unscented Field Spray is a specially formulated field spray produced by Code Blue. It has Silver Scent Technology, which uses medical-grade nanosilver particles that destroy 3 types of odor-causing bacteria, and inhibits the growth of more. This spray eliminates 99.9% of odor-causing microbes, even when it’s dry. This product contains natural ingredients, and is perfect for spraying on gear and apparel.

Code Red Whitetail Doe Estrous is premium, pure doe urine collected when the does are in heat. This product is great for pouring in scrapes to lure in bucks, and for Scent Drags when you are returning to your stand. This scent is primarily what rutting bucks search for during the season.

Learn more at codebluescents.com

Nose Jammer:

The Nose Jammer Pro Pack includes a full assortment of anything you’d need for scent control. This pack includes 6-ounce bottle of Field Spray, 2.25-ounce deodorant stick, 16-ounce bottle of shampoo and body wash, and a 16-ounce bottle of laundry detergent. Eliminate your game’s sense of smell with nose jammer’s concentrated vanillin, as well as other natural compounds that hide your body odor and other foreign smells that scare off game. Their products are specifically formulated for North American woodland hunting; the smell is familiar to other animals and destroys other smells. The scent emitted from these products are naturally occurring scents that radiate off tress, plants and other things in the forest. Four layers of Nose Jammers Products are recommended to trick the senses of possible game by overloading their olfactory gland with a familiar, concentrated scent.

Learn more at nosejammer.com

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ScentBlocker launched this program in 2015 to provide independent retailers with unique product offerings so they can remain competitive with box stores.

“The Back to Main Street program demonstrates ScentBlocker’s long-term partnership commitment to its retailers,” said Swan. “We don’t just sell to them.”

The Back to Mainstreet program provides dealers with strong branded consumer marketing campaigns, flexible POS/POP options, and dealer-exclusive SKUs and camo patterns—all of which has strong margins. They’re also privy new products. Because the distribution of these unique products is protected, the nearly 100 exclusive SKUs for 2017 will be not available on ScentBlocker.com or other online portals such as Amazon.com, ensuring no competition or discounts.

This program is very promising, and it seems like it will only continue to expand. Check out the catalogue here:

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New for 2017, will be exclusive products in Realtree® Xtra and Mossy Oak® Country camo pattern, and, back by popular demand, select ScentBlocker models will offer a “retro-camo” option, as well.

“The Back to Main Street dealer program has real teeth”, says Corey Waller, Robinson National Sales Manager. “When we say dealer exclusive, we mean it! These products will not be available anywhere else, only at our Mainstreet dealers!”

ScentBlocker launched its Back to Main Street program in 2015 to provide independent retailers a differentiator in product offerings to remain competitive with box stores. The BTM program demonstrates Robinson’s commitment to partnering with independent archery retailers that are a direct connection to consumers who rely on their expertise and trust them to carry best in class products. To support this class of retailers, the BTM program provides strong branded consumer marketing campaigns, flexible POS/POP options, and dealer-exclusive SKUs and camo patterns – and, of course, new products and strong margins. Because the distribution is protected, of the nearly 100 exclusive SKUs for 2017, none will be available on ScentBlocker.com or other online portals such as Amazon.com, ensuring no competition or discounts.

Kim Campbell, Robinson Outdoors Products National Sales Manager states, “Category leadership, patented technology, and innovation have been hallmarks of the ScentBlocker brand. We realize that not many retailers can carry all our extensive product lines, which cross no less than 8 hunting categories. Offerings include internal and external body care products, base layers, specialized hunting suits, laundry care products, travel and storage solutions, lures and attractants as well as tree stand safety products within the Tree Spider® line. Back to Mainstreet makes the dealer’s buying decisions easy.”

An improved Dealer Locator on the ScentBlocker.com website connects consumers to local retailers – with nearly 12,000 inquiries over the last two years.

About Robinson Outdoor Products LLC brand ScentBlocker®:
Robinson Outdoor Products is a privately held corporation based in Cannon Falls, MN. As the clear leader in hunting apparel, scent control technologies, scent control liquids, and treestand safety equipment, their mission is to improve the hunter’s experience by innovation. For more information about Robinson Outdoor Products and the Tree Spider brand, call 1-507-263-2885 or visit www.RobinsonOutdoors.com.

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Grassroots dealers have been the basis of Robinson Outdoors/ScentBlocker for 38 years. Over the past decade mass merchants and big box stores, with their deep discounts and closeout pricing, have made business very difficult for independent dealers.

To show their ongoing support of every one of their dealers, Robinson is introducing the Back to Main Street program, which is designed to protect all of their dealers from the risk of lost sales and helps combat big box advertised discount pricing. This program features some of ScentBlocker’s best suits and camouflage patterns that are EXCLUSIVE to dealers only. These specific products are not for sale to anyone except dealers.

The Back to Main Street program guarantees all the features dealers need to be successful: hot new products, great prices, strong margins, in-store signage and merchandising displays, and a year-end cleanup program.

For 2016, it’s time for the dealers to reclaim the business that they’ve supported and grown for all these years.

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