UTV NEWS
Brad Darling
Argo president and investment group acquire Arctic Cat from Textron
Arctic Cat Vice President and current Argo President Brad Darling, along with an investment group that owns a significant stake in Argo / Ontario Gear & Drive Corporation, has purchased Arctic Cat from Textron.
Darling will lead both companies, which will be technically owned and operated separately. Terms of Arctic Cat’ s purchase have yet to be disclosed. More details will be released later on the purchase and Arctic Cat’ s 2026 product line.
“ The pursuit of the checkered flag is in Arctic Cat’ s DNA,” said Darling.“ It’ s what we were built on. Like anyone who has ever grabbed the throttle, it’ s a relentless drive that pushes us forward and sparks our passion. Today is the start of a new chapter, one where Arctic Cat returns to the race, but with a powerful understanding: this race is never-ending, and we intend to lead.”
Since taking ownership of Arctic Cat in 2017, Textron Specialized Vehicles invested a great deal of time and resources to keep the brand and its technology at the forefront.
“ We seek to continue Arctic Cat’ s investment in its brand, products, people and dealers, extending its positive momentum,” said Darling.“ As a permanent fixture of Thief River Falls, Minnesota, for over 63 years, this iconic brand has benefited from the passion of not only the employees but also the entire community. We are now able to wipe away any uncertainty and are looking ahead with great excitement.”
Darling will continue to lead both companies into the future. While each brand will be owned and operated separately, the brand alignment of Argo alongside Arctic Cat is a perfect match as Arctic Cat’ s line of machines bring the passion on and off the trail, while the Argo adventure starts where the trail ends.
According to Argo, the purchase was by Darling and his investment group separately. The investors are also a large stakeholder in Argo / Ontario Gear. However, Argo does not have a stake in Arctic Cat and the companies will operate independently. sportsfieldmanagementonline. com June 2025 | SportsField Management
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