Kobelt Manufacturing Acquired by Private Equity Firm

Kobelt enters a new era with retirement of Jack Kobelt and acquisition of company by US investment company Bow River Capital Partners.

Jack Kobelt founded Kobelt Manufacturing from his basement in 1962, developing unique, hand-engineered components for the marine industry. Over the next five decades his manufacturing company produced a broad range of rugged marine steering and controls and disk brakes designed to perform in the most challenging environments. Kobelt has collected dozens of patents for its cutting-edge products, which are sold in over 100 countries.
Mr. Kobelt has elected to sell the company and transition into retirement.

David Bockhold has been selected to take over the reins as Kobelt’s new CEO. Bockhold, a Vancouver resident, brings more than 20 years of experience building and leading marine component and manufacturing firms. “Jack leaves very big shoes to fill, and his continued advice and guidance will be important as we move forward to build an even bigger and better Kobelt,” said Bockhold. “The Kobelt name has long been known for superb quality and durability and we will maintain those strengths, while looking to advance Kobelt’s reputation for product innovation, partner support and customer service.”