Orvis has announced that it will acquire the Scientific Anglers and Ross Reels businesses from 3M. Upon completion of the transaction, the terms of which were not disclosed, Orvis plans to continue to operate these businesses independently. Orvis will not carry Scientific Anglers-branded fly lines in its catalog, stores or website, nor are there plans to distribute Orvis products through Scientific Anglers' established wholesale accounts. Jim Lepage, the newly-appointed president of both businesses, will relinquish his responsibilities as vice president of Rod & Tackle with Orvis. Orvis plans to maintain strong investments in R&D at both businesses and to boost their sales and distribution resources in the U.S., while building up both brands internationally. Orvis, which has a leading position in the fishing apparel market, wants Scientific Anglers to become a world leader in fly lines, leaders and tippets, while Ross would be the leading innovator in American-made fly reels.

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