CDI Electronics said it acquired Arlington, Wash.-based Ballard Commercial Industries, which is known as Balmar.
Financial terms of the June 6 transaction weren’t disclosed.
CDI Electronics was founded in 1983 as an aftermarket outboard ignition systems and diagnostic software company.
CDI said Balmar was founded in 1982 and is known for high-output alternators and premium DC charging systems for gasoline and diesel inboards.
The pairing was “a perfect fit for both companies, as CDI will benefit from the expansion of its product and market reach beyond gas outboards, while Balmar will benefit from the broad distribution relationships and execution systems afforded by CDI’s ISO 9001-certified factory,” CDI Electronics chairman Tim Bock said in a statement.
“CDI’s expansion to inboard applications started with our recent releases of the marine engine diagnostic system to cover MEFI and CANbus applications. Our growth toward inboard electrical and electronic products takes a big leap forward with the addition of Balmar,” Bock said. “The Balmar team brings broad expertise in solving inboard charging system problems with their line of high-output alternators and multi-stage voltage regulators.”
“We are very pleased to place Balmar in the hands of a capable management team with similar values and business philosophy,” said Bill Montgomery, the retiring majority owner of Balmar. “We believe the two companies have similar cultures, with each organization focused on providing excellent diagnostic and application support to boaters and marine dealers.”
