Canceled merger between Bass Pro Shops Chain and Sportsman’s Warehouse ‘a big win’ for Colorado consumers, says Weiser

Dec. 3, 2021 (DENVER)—Colorado Attorney General Phil Weiser released the following statement regarding the cancellation of a planned merger between Great American Outdoors Group, which operates five stores in the state under the Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s banners, and Sportsman’s Warehouse, which operates seven stores in Colorado:

“Colorado consumers and outdoors enthusiasts got a big win today with Sportsman’s Warehouse announcement that it is canceling its merger with Great American Outdoors Group, which owns Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s. The merger, which would have combined two of the largest U.S. operators of outdoor specialty stores, threatened to harm consumers and workers in the Denver, Colorado Springs, and Grand Junction areas through higher prices, fewer outdoor gear options, the likely closure of some stores, and a loss of jobs.

“My department had agreed to join a lawsuit with the Federal Trade Commission to stop the merger. Coloradans are passionate about their outdoor sports, and it is important that we protect them from mergers or acquisitions that threaten to lessen competition, eliminate high quality product offerings, and increase prices for hunting, shooting, fishing, camping, and other outdoor gear products from outdoor specialty stores in the state.

“Anticompetitive mergers harm consumers, workers, and fair competition. As the People’s Lawyer, I am committed to protecting all Coloradans from anticompetitive conduct and will do so either alongside the federal government or with the authority I have under Colorado law.”

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